Taiwan looking to purchase aerial tankers and early warning aircraft

THE Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) is reportedly in the market for air refuelling tanker transport aircraft and airborne early warning aircraft (AEW). According to reports, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) reached out to France and the US to discuss the possible procurement of the tankers and E-2 Hawkeye AEW.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Offices in both countries have already discussed possible lease agreements or engaging manufacturers to submit tenders for the aircraft. Despite years of plans to procure the E-2 manufactured by Northrop Grumman, Taiwan has not been able to proceed due to budget constraints. For the tanker transport, there has yet to be any announcements on the programme or any potential suitors.-shp/adj/dl (Pix:USAF)