Paraguay wants to rebuild its jet fighter force with retired Taiwanese aircraft, a win for Taiwan's few remaining diplomatic allies and for its defense industry.

• Paraguay is talking with Taiwan about taking 10 to 15 F-5 fighters and AT-3 trainers starting in 2027, restoring a jet capability it lost more than 20 years ago.
• Both planes are on their way out in Taiwan — the F-5 retired last year, and the AT-3 flew its last training missions this July, replaced by the new Brave Eagle trainer.
• The AT-3 is still useful for a country that does not face heavy combat, and it can be fitted with air-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, guns, rockets, and bombs.
• Drones are not a real substitute, since almost none can fight other aircraft and running big ones needs trained crews, ground stations, and a maintenance system.
• Taiwan's AIDC built the AT-3 and would handle repairs and send technicians to Paraguay, bringing in money for Taiwan's defense industry.

Outlook: Taiwan's foreign ministry will not comment on allies' military matters, so expect the deal to stay quiet until aircraft start moving toward 2027.