The Taiwan Air Defense Force reported that an F-16V fighter jet took off from Hualien Air Base on the island's east coast at 6:17 p.m. (5:17 p.m. Hanoi time) on 6/1. The pilot of the F-16V is believed to have ejected over one hour later, approximately 18 km east of Fengbin Township, Hualien County.

Taiwanese authorities deployed UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, transport aircraft, and coast guard vessels to search for the pilot. They also requested assistance from fishing and cargo vessels in the area. The reason for the pilot's decision to abandon the aircraft remains unclear.

Taiwan island and its namesake strait. Graphic: CSIS

This incident occurred amid ongoing regional tensions. These tensions followed remarks by Japan's prime minister regarding Taiwan island in 11/2025 and large-scale drills conducted by the Chinese military around the island in 12/2025.

China consistently views Taiwan as a breakaway province awaiting reunification and prioritizes peaceful solutions. However, Beijing has warned it could use military force if necessary.

The F-16V is the most advanced variant of the US-made F-16 fighter jet series, capable of speeds exceeding 2,400 km/h. Taiwan's defense forces ordered 66 F-16Vs and completed upgrades of 141 F-16 fighter jets to the F-16V standard in 2023.

An F-16V fighter jet at a base in Hualien County, Taiwan island in 8/2022. Photo: Reuters

Taiwan's first accident involving an F-16V occurred in 1/2022. During a training flight, the fighter jet crashed into the waters east of the island, and the pilot died in that incident.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, CNA)