Many local manufacturers will showcase their latest technologies at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition from Sept. 18-20. Taiwan's defense industry development will be highlighted at the event, given the country's intent to boost defense and grow international demand for a China-free drone supply chain, per CNA.
President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said the government plans to increase next year's defense budget to more than 3% of the country's GDP. The budget increase will support the procurement of weapons, including drones and unmanned boats, if passed.
Between 2026 and 2027, the Ministry of National Defense will procure 48,750 drones with a total budget of nearly NT$50 billion (US$1.56 billion). The 2026 defense budget also includes an order for 1,320 USVs, with the contract value expected to reach NT$18 billion.
Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. said that it is one of the few domestic companies capable of manufacturing complete aircraft. At the expo, it will showcase its counter-drone system. The company expects orders for related Taiwanese manufacturers to increase, driven by the push for a China-independent supply chain.
Air Asia Co. has partnered with Carbon-Based Technology to develop military reconnaissance drones, which have been delivered to the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. The institute has also authorized Air Asia to manufacture composite airframes for UAVs.
Thunder Tiger plans to establish manufacturing facilities in the US for the mass production of drone motors and critical components. The company will showcase six unmanned platforms at the expo, including ground vehicles, drones, and USVs.
The company’s booth will feature an area showcasing key Taiwan-made components. It is also set to unveil its latest USV, the SeaShark 600 Stealth, which boasts stealth capabilities, a low acoustic signature, built-in anti-jamming, obstacle avoidance, and collaborative mission functions. The vessel can carry up to 600 kg and be deployed for reconnaissance and strike missions.
CSBC Corp. will showcase its USV, the Endeavor Manta, at the event. The company said the vessel is designed for use in defense, rescue operations, and support for offshore wind power. Apart from satellite communications and the outboard motor, all of its components are domestically manufactured.
Coretronic Intelligent Robotics Corp. secured a defense ministry order for 3,037 drones last year and plans to expand into the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The company has also invested in counter-drone system R&D, which integrates radar, AI-powered image analysis, and sensing technologies.
Teco Electric and Machinery Co. has developed drone motors and battery systems for agricultural and logistics applications. Pontex Co. is investing in the production of lightweight composite materials for drones. Meanwhile, Shinkong Synthetic Fibers plans to open northern Taiwan's largest UAV center in Taoyuan by 2027, featuring manufacturing, R&D, flight testing, and certification facilities.
Resource：https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/news/6195614
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