By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
In a bid to bolster its defenses against an increasingly aggressive China, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has allocated funds to mass produce indigenously designed loitering munitions, complementing the limited supply of US-provided kamikaze drones. This move reflects a strategic shift towards self-sufficiency in defense production, leveraging Taiwan’s technological prowess to counter the Chinese military threat.
The US State Department’s approval of a $715 million arms sale to Taiwan in June, including Switchblade 300 and ALTIUS 600M-V drones, was deemed insufficient by Taiwan’s military. A internal assessment revealed that the number of attack drones provided by the US falls short of Taiwan’s defense requirements, prompting the MND to initiate domestic production of Type-1 and Type-2 kamikaze drones, slated for inclusion in the 2025 budget.
Domestic Drone Development
The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) is driving the development of Taiwan’s drone capabilities. The Type-1 drone, designed for individual soldiers, boasts quick deployment and easy operation, with a 15-minute flight time and guided control range exceeding 10 km. The Type-2 drone offers extended flight time, beyond-visual-range reconnaissance, and strike capabilities using advanced sensors. Its flexible launch methods enable swarm attacks from ships or vehicles.
Chien Hsiang Anti-Radiation Drones
The Chien Hsiang series, designed to target enemy radar stations and shipborne radars, will undergo performance enhancements, with upgraded versions to be produced in small batches and included in the regular annual budget. The mass production plan for these drones, listed under a special budget for improving sea and air combat capabilities, is expected to be completed in 2025.
Expert Analysis
“The move to develop and produce domestic drones reflects Taiwan’s growing confidence in its defense industry,” notes Dr. Ching-Chang Chi, a military expert at Tamkang University. “By reducing reliance on foreign supplies, Taiwan can ensure a steady supply of critical weaponry, tailoring its drone capabilities to meet specific defense needs.”
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Comparative Analysis
While the US-provided Switchblade 300 offers impressive anti-personnel and anti-armor capabilities, Taiwan’s domestically developed drones offer unique advantages. The Type-1 and Type-2 drones are designed for troop use, providing a more mobile and flexible response to armored threats. The Chien Hsiang series, with its anti-radiation capabilities, offers a critical counter to Chinese electronic warfare assets.
Conclusion
Taiwan’s decision to boost domestic drone production marks a significant milestone in its defense strategy, demonstrating a commitment to self-sufficiency and adaptability in the face of an evolving Chinese threat. As the military landscape continues to shift, Taiwan’s investment in drone technology will likely play a critical role in maintaining regional stability and deterrence.
