Taiwan bolsters defences with combat-tested drone tech from Ukraine war

Taiwan has signed a strategic agreement with drone software developer Auterion — headquartered in both the United States and Germany — for technology that has proven itself in Ukraine’s war against Russia. 

The partnership, announced on June 17, is aimed at enhancing Taiwan’s military preparedness amid escalating threats from China.

Auterion’s drone operating system has been extensively used by Ukrainian forces in combat situations, allowing for effective strikes against Russian targets. Now, this combat-hardened software is set to form the backbone of Taiwan’s effort to build a massive autonomous drone fleet capable of deterring Chinese aggression.

“Everything we’re offering has already been tested in Ukraine—from disabling tanks to sinking naval vessels and hitting other high-value targets,” said Auterion CEO Lorenz Meier in an interview with Reuters. “By assembling a vast fleet of autonomous drones, Taiwan can increase its deterrence capabilities significantly.”

The deal was made in coordination with Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, the research and development wing of the island’s Ministry of National Defence. It focuses specifically on software for uncrewed systems and advanced drone swarming technologies.

Meier emphasised the long-term scope of the agreement, forecasting that over time, the collaboration could result in the deployment of millions of drones and generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic value. He made the remarks during a government-organised maritime drone exhibition held at the port of Suao in northeastern Taiwan.

As part of a broader shift encouraged by the United States, Taiwan is modernising its military to adopt "asymmetric warfare" strategies. This includes deploying agile, cost-effective weapons such as drones and truck-mounted missile systems — tools designed to offset China’s overwhelming numerical military advantage.

Beijing, which claims the self-governed island as part of its territory, has intensified military pressure on Taiwan in recent years, staging multiple large-scale war games in nearby waters. Taiwan’s government categorically rejects China’s sovereignty claims.

The exhibition in Suao featured a variety of unmanned sea drones, ranging from explosive-laden, high-speed suicide vessels to stealthy, low-profile reconnaissance craft.

Chung-Shan Institute President Li Shih-chiang addressed the five foreign companies participating in the event, praising their support. “I believe you will soon be sanctioned by the Chinese government,” he quipped, “but do not be afraid—you have chosen to stand with the democratic world.”

Taiwanese defence officials have closely studied Ukraine’s use of both aerial and maritime drones to gain a battlefield advantage despite being outnumbered. Ukraine’s unmanned sea drones have not only struck Russian naval ships but have also been used to shoot down aircraft.

By Tamilla Hasanova