Taiwan drones dominated the Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition, where the island unveiled its newest unmanned military systems. The event underscored Taipei’s strategy to expand asymmetric warfare capabilities and deepen defense cooperation with international partners.
The National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology revealed several headline systems. Among them, the Barracuda-500 autonomous cruise missile stood out. Developed with US-based Anduril Industries, the modular missile mounts on mobile vehicles and strikes hostile vessels. Moreover, it can also disrupt enemy communications.
In addition, the institute introduced the Dive-LD underwater vehicle and the C-500M mobile mine, both created with Anduril. Engineers designed the Dive-LD for flexible missions, enabling ten days of continuous operation at depths of 6,000 meters. Meanwhile, the C-500M functions as an anti-anchor and anti-submarine barrier. As a result, these mines can block waterways and trap enemy ships when deployed in groups.
Another highlight came from the Mighty Hornet drone in its anti-armor configuration. Built with US defense company Kratos, the drone takes off vertically, shifts into horizontal flight, and carries a specialized warhead. Therefore, it offers versatility in both deployment and targeting.
Private firms also contributed impressive displays. Taiwan UAV presented the TU-30VG, a vertical takeoff fixed-wing drone with eight-hour endurance and 150-kilometer range. Furthermore, the Taiwan Navy has already ordered nearly 100 of these systems to strengthen maritime defense.
Taiwan UAV also brought the TU-45GD loitering munition, designed with Anduril. This drone recognizes targets automatically, carries a 10-kilogram payload, and flies for up to five hours. Consequently, it adds a powerful precision-strike option to Taiwan’s arsenal.
Thunder Tiger showcased the Seashark 600 uncrewed surface vessel. It hauls up to 600 kilograms and speeds across the water at 74 kilometers per hour. The company also displayed the Tiger Road unmanned ground vehicle, which can deploy loitering munitions while traveling at 30 kilometers per hour.
Shipbuilder Lungteh introduced the Black Tide prototype, a stealthy surface vessel for surveillance and direct strike missions. Additionally, it reaches speeds close to 80 kilometers per hour while maintaining a low profile.
The exhibition gathered more than 400 companies from 14 nations. On the domestic side, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, the Taiwan Space Agency, AIDC, and Thunder Tiger participated. At the same time, major foreign contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, and Excalibur International joined the event.
Analysts say Taiwan drones will shape the island’s defense future. Officials stress that partnerships with foreign firms accelerate innovation and strengthen deterrence. Furthermore, with rising regional tensions, Taipei plans to expand these programs and increase investment in unmanned technologies.
Industry observers agree that Taiwan drones will remain a key part of national defense planning. Ultimately, these systems provide cost-effective, flexible options that support Taiwan’s maritime security and overall strategic resilience.
