Combat-Tested Drone Tech from Ukraine Heads to Taiwan
Taiwan has signed a strategic deal with Auterion, a drone software firm based in the US and Germany, to strengthen its defence capabilities. Auterion’s software, already tested in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, will now support Taiwan’s efforts to deter potential military threats from China.
The agreement, announced on Tuesday, links Auterion with Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. This state-backed research organisation plays a central role in Taiwan’s defence innovation. The partnership aims to enhance Taiwan’s uncrewed systems and drone swarming capabilities.
Building an Autonomous Drone Fleet
Auterion’s software powers drones that have been used in Ukraine to destroy tanks and naval equipment. The company says Taiwan could eventually deploy millions of drones using its systems.
Auterion CEO Lorenz Meier said, “This technology has been combat-proven in Ukraine. By building a large autonomous fleet, Taiwan can deter China.” He added that the partnership is long-term and could result in “hundreds of millions of dollars” in value over time.
Speaking at a drone exhibition in the port town of Suao, Meier emphasised the strategic importance of uncrewed sea and air drones. The event featured a range of unmanned craft, from explosive-laden sea drones designed for direct attacks to smaller vessels focused on covert surveillance.
Asymmetric Warfare and Global Support
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has increased military pressure over the past five years, including several rounds of large-scale war games. Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Taiwan has studied how Ukrainian forces use drones to counter a numerically superior foe. The lessons have been clear: drones offer an efficient way to balance power.
Encouraged by the US, Taiwan has been modernising its forces to focus on “asymmetric warfare.” This strategy involves mobile, cost-effective systems—like drones and truck-mounted missiles—that can still deliver precise strikes.
Chung-Shan President Li Shih-chiang thanked five foreign firms that joined the Suao exhibition. In a light-hearted remark, he said, “I believe that you will soon be sanctioned by the Chinese government, but do not fear, because you have chosen the democratic camp.”
Ukraine’s use of sea drones to attack Russian ships and aircraft has caught the attention of military planners worldwide. Taiwan now hopes to replicate this success with help from its new partnership.
with inputs from Reuters
