Taiwan Launches New Missile Developed with US Arms Company
Taiwan has unveiled a new prototype cruise missile developed in collaboration with the American defense company, Anduril Industries. This initiative aims to enhance Taiwan’s military capabilities amid increasing threats from China. The missile was showcased by the government-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) during the island’s largest defense expo, which commenced on March 14, 2024.
The cruise missile, described as a “low-cost autonomous cruise missile,” is designed to be manufactured locally. It draws inspiration from Anduril’s Barracuda-500, a type of loitering ammunition currently under testing by the US military. NCSIST President Li Shih-chiang noted that the missile can target both land and maritime objectives, although the specific range was not disclosed. The estimated production cost is around $216,000 per missile, with plans to establish a production line within the next 18 months.
The development of this missile underscores Taiwan’s efforts to bolster its defense capabilities amidst heightened tensions with China. The Chinese government considers Taiwan as part of its territory and has escalated military and diplomatic pressure on the island, which includes regular military exercises and incursions into Taiwanese airspace. In response to these threats, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has announced an increase in defense spending to 5% of the country’s GDP before 2030.
Future Defense Collaborations and Technology
In addition to the cruise missile, NCSIST displayed a prototype underwater drone and an autonomous mobile mine, both of which are being developed in partnership with Anduril Industries. During the three-day defense trade show, NCSIST plans to finalize two contracts and six memorandums of understanding with several US and Canadian companies, further solidifying international defense collaborations.
Anduril’s founder, Palmer Luckey, visited Taiwan last month and praised its technological advancements. “Taiwan is on the verge of a techno-industrial renaissance in national defense,” he remarked, highlighting the island’s existing capabilities in consumer and industrial electronics. This technological prowess positions Taiwan as a significant player in global defense manufacturing.
International Reactions and Tensions
China reacted sharply to Taiwan’s military advancements. At the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun condemned what he termed “external military interference” regarding Taiwan. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to thwart any attempts at Taiwanese independence and emphasized that the situation remains a critical issue for Beijing.
Dong criticized the “Cold War mentality” and called for global unity against perceived bullying actions, particularly targeting the United States. Last week, he raised the issue of Taiwan during a call with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, warning that any efforts to use Taiwan as leverage against China would ultimately fail.
As Taiwan continues to develop its defense capabilities, the international community watches closely, aware that these advancements may significantly impact regional security dynamics.
