Taiwan plans to develop and deploy naval drones as part of its defense strategy against growing pressure from China. The initiative draws inspiration from the successful use of unmanned naval vehicles by Ukraine against the Russian army, reports "Reuters", reports News.bg.
Taiwanese military and research institutes are closely monitoring the war in Ukraine and analyzing the tactics with which Ukrainian forces have managed to inflict significant damage on a more powerful adversary. Particular attention is paid to the role of naval drones in attacks on Russian naval targets in the Black Sea - including strikes on logistical infrastructure and sabotage.
Experts in Taiwan believe that such technology can be adapted to the conditions of the island and used effectively in the narrow straits around it, where Chinese naval forces would be more vulnerable. Naval drones are difficult to detect, relatively cheap to produce and represent a strategic tool within the framework of asymmetric defense.
Although the Ministry of Defense in Taipei has not disclosed official details, local media reports that prototype tests are already underway. They include drones equipped with cameras, sensors and the ability to transport explosives.
Amid the increased Chinese military presence around Taiwan in recent months, the authorities in Taipei are accelerating the construction of the so-called “defensive mobility“ - a strategy that combines traditional weapons with new technologies, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities.
Meanwhile, Beijing continues to warn that any action by Taiwan to strengthen its military capacity will be seen as a provocation, further exacerbating tensions in the region.