Taiwan Unveils Advanced Drone and Armored Vehicle Prototypes

The Taiwan Ministry of National Defense showcased new military technology on March 15, 2024, revealing images of a bomber drone, a loitering munition, and a prototype armored vehicle. Developed by the Armaments Bureau, these innovations aim to enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities amid regional security challenges.

The new bomber drone is a quadcopter designed for ground target strikes using heavy explosives. According to footage shared on the Military News Agency’s YouTube channel, this drone boasts an improved loitering range compared to existing tactical drones. Notably, it lacks the drum-shaped internal weapons bay characteristic of the army’s current models, indicating a shift towards more streamlined designs.

Alongside the bomber, the Ministry introduced a loitering munition, often referred to as a “suicide drone.” This fixed-wing system launches from a catapult and is equipped with a contact fuse for long-range strikes. The video displayed launches from a coastal site, demonstrating the munition’s capabilities in targeting maritime objectives.

These drones have been developed in collaboration with the private sector, focusing on mass production, cost-effectiveness, and rapid deployment. Military officials stated that these advancements are critical to enhancing Taiwan’s asymmetric warfare strategies.

Prototype Armored Vehicle Enhances Ground Forces

The prototype armored fighting vehicle, designated as the D3, is engineered with a low-pressure 105mm gun and a reduced-height chassis, meeting army specifications. Its design emphasizes mobility and firepower, enabling quick deployment in counterassault operations. The D3 can penetrate 500mm of rolled homogeneous steel at a range of 2 kilometers and is armored to resist fire from 30mm cannons.

The vehicle has a maximum road speed of 100 kilometers per hour and can navigate gradients of up to 60 degrees. Additionally, it can wade through depths of up to 70 centimeters and has a cruise range of 500 kilometers on a full tank.

Equipped with an electric turret, the D3 enhances gun precision and includes an independent fire-control system, allowing the vehicle commander to engage multiple targets simultaneously. To bolster its defense, it also features a 12.7mm remote-controlled weapon system, designed to protect against enemy personnel.

The choice of a wheeled platform for the D3 is strategic, aimed at optimizing the use of Taiwan’s dense road network. This development represents a significant step forward in Taiwan’s military modernization efforts, reflecting a commitment to strengthen its defense posture in a complex geopolitical landscape.