F-104 fighter jet flies into the city—New Taipei’s Veterans Shrine creates Taiwan’s largest weapons park

▲ The F-104, once the fastest flying combat aircraft in the world during the 1950s, will be permanently stationed at the Veterans Shrine after retirement, giving the public a chance to see this battle-proven aircraft. (Photo / Courtesy ofNew Taipei City Veterans Shrine and Weapons Park official website)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

New Taipei City has transformed the Veterans Shrine into Taiwan’s largest “weapons park,” gathering a total of 16 different types of land, sea, and air weaponry and retired fighter jets within the park grounds to allow the public to learn about the historical deeds of the national military during wartime.

The Veterans Shrine was originally established to honor the lifelong sacrifices and dedication of servicemen in defending the nation. It was set up in Shulin District with over 22,000 columbarium niches to enshrine these brave souls, but it has now reached full capacity. As a result, the New Taipei City Government has built a second columbarium building, providing 25,000 additional niches so more heroes can be laid to rest.

To prevent the Veterans Shrine from feeling too somber, the New Taipei City Civil Affairs Bureau planned to beautify the outdoor area as a weapons park. The Ministry of National Defense provided many decommissioned weapons and equipment, as well as fighter jets that participated in numerous historic battles. These include the F-104 Starfighter, which served for 38 years and shot down MiG fighters during the 113th Air Battle of Kinmen, and two F-5E fighter jets. To adapt to their environments and for camouflage, they were painted with sky and jungle camouflage patterns.

▲ The weapons park features 16 different types of land, sea, and air weaponry, including tanks, artillery, and even jamming rockets—perfect for weapons enthusiasts. The photo above shows the M-42A1 twin 40mm anti-aircraft gun vehicle (left) and the MK3 naval single 40mm gun (right). (Photo / Courtesy ofNew Taipei City Veterans Shrine and Weapons Park official website)

In addition to fighter jets, the shrine will also house the “Chung Chao Ship” that participated in the Normandy landings of World War II, M42 anti-aircraft gun vehicles, M41A3 tanks, 75mm mountain guns, and jamming rockets, all available for public viewing. The expected display includes 7 pieces of army weaponry, 6 pieces of navy equipment, and 3 pieces of air force hardware. The park will be open for visits from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM every Tuesday through Sunday, with guided tours also available on-site. Visitors can check details on theNew Taipei City Veterans Shrine and Weapons Park websitefor more information.