US “Hellscape” Strategy – Sells Taiwan Cutting Edge “Attack Drone” Technology

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

In a significant development, the U.S. State Department has approved the sale of advanced suicide drones to Taiwan, with deliveries expected between 2024 and 2025. The deal includes up to 720 Switchblade 300 loitering munitions and up to 291 ALTIUS 600M-V unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), valued at approximately $300 million. This package marks the 15th arms sale to Taiwan under the Biden administration, reflecting a consistent effort to enhance Taiwan’s military readiness.

According to an article in the Washingtonpost by Josh Rogin, U.S. Navy Adm. Samuel Paparo, the new head of the Indo-Pacific Command, recently outlined a new strategy termed “Hellscape.” This strategy involves deploying thousands of unmanned submarines, surface ships, and aerial drones to flood the Taiwan Strait in the event of a Chinese invasion. The goal is to create a hostile environment that delays Chinese advances and provides time for a coordinated defense by Taiwanese, U.S., and allied forces.

Adm. Paparo’s vision is to turn the Taiwan Strait into an “unmanned hellscape” using classified capabilities, thereby making any Chinese military operation exceedingly difficult and costly. This approach aligns with the broader U.S. strategy of using technological superiority to offset numerical and geographical disadvantages.

Switchblade 300 Loitering Munitions

The Switchblade 300, developed by AeroVironment, is a lightweight, portable loitering munition designed for precise strikes. Weighing about 2.5 kg, it can be deployed from a variety of platforms, including ground troops and vehicles. Its key features include:

• Range and Endurance: The Switchblade 300 has a range of 10 km and can loiter for up to 15 minutes.
• Precision Strike Capability: Equipped with high-resolution optics and GPS, it can target enemy positions with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing collateral damage.
• Portability: Its compact size allows for easy transport and rapid deployment by infantry units, enhancing operational flexibility.

ALTIUS 600M-V UAVs

The ALTIUS 600M-V, manufactured by Anduril Industries, is a versatile UAV designed for both reconnaissance and strike missions. Key specifications include: