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Lessons from Ukraine War Propel Taiwan to Strengthen Drone Capabilities and Anti-Drone Defense.
In response to evolving modern military tactics, Taiwan's armed forces are drawing lessons from recent drone warfare, as seen in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war. On December 6, 2024, during a visit to a military training center in Tainan, Taiwan’s Defense Minister Gu Lixiong reviewed technological advancements integrated into the military’s equipment and tactics. This initiative reflects Taiwan’s efforts to modernize its defense capabilities and bolster autonomy amid growing regional security challenges.
These upgrades demonstrate Taiwan’s focus on enhancing the survivability of armored vehicles in a combat environment increasingly influenced by autonomous aerial technologies (Picture source: Taiwanese MoD)
Among the innovations showcased was the anti-drone protection system installed on American-made M60A3 TTS tanks. These tanks have been equipped with additional defensive structures, including protective nets along their sides to shield the tracks partially, as well as reinforced armor for the sides, front, and turret. The turret also features a hinged grill cover, commonly referred to as a "barbecue" grille, designed to counter drone threats effectively. These upgrades demonstrate Taiwan’s focus on enhancing the survivability of armored vehicles in a combat environment increasingly influenced by autonomous aerial technologies.
The Taiwanese military is also emphasizing the deployment and integration of FPV (First Person View) drones in its operations. These drones, capable of reconnaissance and precision strikes, have become a key element of Taiwan’s military strategy. Since mid-2024, soldier training on these systems has intensified, aiming to develop independent and proficient drone operators for multi-domain scenarios. At the training center, exercises were conducted simulating future battlefields, combining reconnaissance and coordinated drone strikes. These exercises highlighted the military’s capability to gather real-time intelligence and execute precise attacks on enemy targets.
The Taiwanese military is also emphasizing the deployment and integration of FPV (First Person View) drones in its operations (Picture source: Taiwanese MoD)
Additionally, Taiwan has invested in digital management systems to enhance training, logistics, and data security. Minister Gu observed progress in integrating these systems, including modular management tools that enable more efficient resource allocation and reinforce the resilience of critical systems against cyber threats.
Taiwan’s technological advancements reflect its goal to strengthen defensive capabilities while developing independent national defense mechanisms. In parallel, the Taiwanese government continues to enhance military cooperation with the United States, including plans to acquire F-35A fighter jets to counter China’s J-20 aircraft. This cooperation underlines the joint modernization efforts aimed at maintaining strategic balance in the region.
The demonstrations during the visit underscored Taiwan’s commitment to adopting innovations tailored to modern combat realities. Equipment upgrades, drone integration, and the optimization of management processes signify a strategic shift toward a smarter, more effective defense posture. Amid rising security challenges, Taiwan remains focused on safeguarding its sovereignty and promoting regional stability through comprehensive modernization efforts.