TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Air Force held a decommissioning ceremony for the last squadron of F-5 aircraft at Hualien Air Base on Thursday, marking the retirement of the series from service.
In the final mission, a five-aircraft formation of three RF-5E Tigereye reconnaissance planes and two F-5F Tiger II fighters flew over Hualien and Taiwan's eastern waters before returning to base, per CNA. The aircraft then taxied under a ceremonial water salute and returned to their hangars.
Colonel Hsu Chun-jung (許俊榮), one of the mission pilots, reported to Vice Defense Minister Po Horng-huei (柏鴻輝) upon landing, saying, “RF-5E mission accomplished.” Seven pilots received flowers from family members ahead of the retirement ceremony.
Po read out the official order deactivating the RF-5Es and said the Air Force has always passed the baton from one strong unit to the next in defense of the nation. He recalled that the Air Force first received F-5A fighters on Dec. 9, 1965, forming decades of service and memories.
Through the Tiger Peace Project, Taiwan and US-based Northrop Corporation jointly produced F-5E/F fighters locally, with the first F-5E completed on Dec. 6, 1974. In 1997, seven F-5Es were upgraded by Singapore Aerospace Manufacturing into RF-5E reconnaissance aircraft.
Po said their retirement marks the end of the F-5’s chapter in Taiwan’s Air Force. The RF-16 will now assume the reconnaissance duties.
He stressed that the 5th Tactical Fighter Wing in Hualien continues to defend Taiwan’s airspace against China’s daily gray-zone tactics. He also acknowledged growing public support for the military, reflected in recent government initiatives.
However, Po emphasized that service members remain committed and vigilant, upholding Taiwan’s freedom, democracy, and prosperity in the face of ongoing threats. He expressed confidence in the military’s ability to carry out its mission.
After completing the final flight, Hsu told reporters he was excited and nervous. Despite it being the last mission, he said it had to be completed with precision.
He described a feeling of apprehension during the flight, as he carefully managed formation, timing, speed, and spacing while monitoring the aircraft for any issues. Only after all planes landed safely and returned to the hangars did he feel at ease.
Reflecting on over 20 years of reconnaissance missions, Hsu said he was proud of the RF-5E’s legacy. Although retired, the aircraft leaves behind a valuable photographic record of Taiwan.
The Air Force confirmed that the RF-16 will now carry out tactical reconnaissance operations, providing critical intelligence for national defense and strategic planning.
