Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian waves after reviewing a batch of
advanced F-16 fighter jets at an air force base in Chiayi, central
Taiwan, on December 18, 2001. Chen commissioned the U.S.-made fighters,
which form the backbone of Taiwan's air defence in the face of growing
military threat from political rival China. China views the island as a
breakaway province that must be brought under its rule, by force if
necessary. REUTERS/Simon Kwong

SK/JD