Taiwan is taking steps to create a drone-focused defense strategy to counter potential Chinese threats by 2027. The goal in Taipei is to develop an “invisible force” in both air and sea operations. However, despite its technological advancements, Taiwan faces internal challenges, including hesitation and a heavy reliance on exports.
Recently, three military drones—Carbon Voyager, Black Tide, and the explosive-laden SeaShark—were demonstrated at Su-ao Bay, located off Taiwan’s northeast coast. These drones part of a tech-driven defense initiative aimed at deterring Chinese incursions.
In the event of a conflict, Chinese forces would need to cross the 180-kilometer-wide Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is leveraging this difficult terrain with a strategy focused on low-cost, high-attrition tactics, which would force adversaries into expensive warfare.
By 2028, Taipei aims to produce 15,000 dual-use drones each month. The Ministry of National Defense is overseeing the development of military drones. However, analysts suggest that the current production levels and orders may not meet the demands of wartime scenarios, where thousands of drones could be lost each day.
Beyond production, there are noticeable gaps in strategic planning. There are no clear deployment strategies for mountainous and densely forested areas, and urban combat tactics remain undefined.
Read more: UK Considers Palestinian Statehood Amidst Gaza Conflict: A Humanitarian Call
Analysts also point out Taiwan’s significant dependence on Chinese components and raw materials with many essential parts—such as batteries, sensors, navigation software and video transmission chips—sourced from China. While efforts are being made to develop fully domestic drones, costs substantial, and investors are wary of potential sanctions.
