Taiwan unveils new improved indigenous fighter jet

President Chen Shui-bian unveiled an upgraded version of a domestically produced fighter jet on Tuesday, saying it would bolster Taiwan's air defenses.

The twin-seat "Hsiung Yin," or Brave Eagle, was rolled out in a ceremony at a sprawling air base near the central city of Taichung.

Chen has come up against obstacles _ principally from Beijing _ that have made it difficult for Taiwan to acquire fighter jets abroad. Speaking at the ceremony, the president said the new indigenous aircraft would help solve that problem.

"With the gradual upgrading of more fighter jets, we can significantly boost our air defense capability," he said.

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