Europe Steps into the Spotlight at Taiwan’s Largest Defence Exhibition
For decades, the United States has dominated Taiwan’s arms market. However, at the recent Taipei Aerospace and Defence Technology Exhibition, European countries made a noticeable entrance. This shift signals a cautious but growing willingness in Europe to engage with Taiwan, despite concerns over provoking China.
Taiwan, a self-governed democracy, has relied heavily on US weapons. Most European nations avoided major defence deals with Taiwan for over 30 years, fearing backlash from Beijing. China considers Taiwan part of its territory, a claim the island firmly rejects. Taiwan insists that only its people can decide the island’s future.
Central and Eastern Europe Show Greater Support
Although many European countries remain hesitant about formal defence ties with Taiwan, the atmosphere is slowly changing. Central and Eastern European nations, especially after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, have become more open to cooperation.
At the exhibition, Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo visited the Czech pavilion. He was welcomed by Pavel Fischer, chairman of the Czech Senate’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and Security Committee. Fischer stated, “Today in Taiwan we have many partners to work with.” He also acknowledged the challenges Taiwan faces in global politics, pointing to China’s aggressive tactics.
Germany also participated officially for the first time. The German Trade Office Taipei highlighted Germany’s advancements in aerospace and security. Airbus, another new participant, showcased its Flexrotor drone, capable of 14-hour surveillance missions. A sticker on the drone read, “I heart Taiwan,” reflecting the friendly gesture.
Airbus promoted a range of services beyond passenger aircraft, including helicopters for rescue missions and secure communications systems.
Taiwan and Europe Deepen Engagement
In a further sign of warming ties, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung recently visited Prague, Rome and Vienna. His trip followed a visit to Austria by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, highlighting the diplomatic balancing act in the region.
While European nations have yet to match US involvement—Lockheed Martin, the maker of Taiwan’s main F-16 fighter jets, remains a key exhibitor—Europe’s stance appears to be evolving. Historically, European arms sales to Taiwan have been rare. France last sold major items in the early 1990s, including six frigates and 60 Mirage jets. The Netherlands faced strong backlash from China in the 1980s after selling submarines, leading to a halt in further deals.
However, change is on the horizon. Britain, for example, is currently assisting Taiwan with its first locally built submarines. A Taiwanese drone manufacturer working with European partners remarked, “There is much less caution now. The world has changed because of Ukraine.”
with inputs from Reuters
