Speaking at the 2026 Taipei Security Dialogue on September 9, 2026, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized that unmanned systems and counter-drone technologies have transformed the battlefield. She noted that the government has submitted a special budget proposal to the Legislative Yuan for drone procurement. Among the planned acquisitions, coastal surveillance drones, coastal strike drones, and unmanned strike boats will be manufactured domestically. Furthermore, all government drone production and procurement, including civilian purchases, must utilize a completely non-Red supply chain to mitigate risks and dependency.
This policy aligns with ongoing legislative support. On August 14, 2026, the Legislative Yuan passed the central government budget for fiscal year 2026, which fully approved approximately NT$8 billion for the Ministry of Economic Affairs' program to promote the development of the unmanned vehicle industry.
