February 20, 2000 (by Lieven Dewitte) -
The Teal Group expects a Taiwanese F-16 follow-on buy, just as soon as it is politically feasible. A Mirage follow-on buy is possible, too, they say. After these, Taiwan would buy something heavier or possibly an export version F-22 according to them. The latter has an excellent chance, but only if US-China relations deteriorate. Barring that, they'll probably get Rafales.
The Asian crisis hasn't affected every country in the region. Some, most notably Taiwan, were immune, and are still able to pay for Western defense equipment.
The Teal Group is a defense and aerospace consulting firm based in Fairfax, Virginia.
