The United States and Taiwan are joining forces to create drone supply chains that are independent of China. A delegation of 26 US drone and anti-drone companies is set to arrive in Taipei on Sunday for a three-day series of meetings with Taiwanese counterparts, military officials, and researchers.
This collaboration underscores a growing effort to “de-risk” supply chains amid the escalating rivalry between the US and China. Concerns about Chinese products with dual civilian and military uses are driving this move. The delegation includes representatives from the US Commerce Department, the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit, and Dev Shenoy, head of the Defense Department’s microelectronics research and engineering. The mission aims to assist US companies in finding non-Chinese component suppliers or manufacturing partners.
Taiwan’s Defence Minister, Wellington Koo, highlighted the significance of this visit, stating that it provides an opportunity for Taiwan to integrate into US supply chains and participate in co-production. This integration could help Taiwan overcome export challenges stemming from its international status and pressure from China.
Among the visiting companies are AeroVironment, Dedrone, and Northrop Grumman. Taiwan’s government is also bolstering its own drone industry, awarding NT$6.8bn ($210mn) in defence ministry orders to private companies for autonomous platforms, including microdrones and ship-borne reconnaissance drones.
This collaboration comes at a time of heightened tensions with China. The US Air Force has been testing AI-powered drones, such as the XQ-58A Valkyrie, which have the potential to significantly alter military warfare by evaluating enemy threats and carrying missiles. The US has also recently approved a $228 million military sale to Taiwan to enhance its aircraft combat readiness. This is part of a broader strategy to support Taiwan’s defense capabilities.
Furthermore, the US has decided to retain a mid-range missile system in the Philippines despite China’s demands for its removal. This Typhon missile system is seen as critical for defending Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack.
China has issued strong warnings to the US regarding interference in its sovereignty. Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized that the Taiwan question is a crucial “red line” in US-China relations.
This collaboration between the US and Taiwan in the drone industry is a significant step towards building independent supply chains and strengthening regional security amidst growing tensions with China. The development of AI-powered drones and the strengthening of military support for Taiwan are further indications of the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region.
