Taiwan Boosts Homegrown Drone Industry to Counter China
Taiwan is ramping up its drone industry to enhance its self-defense capabilities in the face of escalating tensions with China.
The Ministry of National Defense plans to invest NT$50 billion (approximately $1.5 billion) to acquire over 3,000 civilian drones for military use by 2028.
The growth of Taiwan's drone industry is being driven by a collaboration between the public and private sectors. The government aims to strengthen its defense supply chains while fostering a new growth driver in the technology sector.
Taiwan's GEOSAT Aerospace & Technology is partnering with European companies to develop and produce drones. This collaboration will help Taiwan gain expertise and access advanced drone technologies.
The move comes as China, a global leader in drone technology, continues to assert its dominance in the region. Taiwan is seeking to bolster its defense capabilities and counter potential threats from its neighbor.
The acquisition of civilian drones for military use will provide Taiwan with enhanced surveillance capabilities and the ability to gather intelligence in sensitive areas. Drones can also be used for reconnaissance missions and target identification.
The development of a homegrown drone industry will not only strengthen Taiwan's defense capabilities but also boost its technological prowess. It will create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the country.
Taiwan's efforts to cultivate its drone industry align with its broader strategy to enhance its defense capabilities. The country has been seeking support from allies such as the United States and Japan to deter Chinese aggression.
By investing in its own drone industry, Taiwan aims to reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers and ensure a secure supply chain for critical defense technologies.
Taiwan plans to invest $1.5 billion to acquire over 3,000 civilian drones for military use by 2028.
The collaboration between the public and private sectors aims to strengthen Taiwan's defense supply chains and foster technological growth.
Taiwan's GEOSAT Aerospace & Technology is partnering with European companies to develop and produce drones.
Source: Nikkei Asia