Swift and Sudden: Taiwan's Sea Drones on Guard

Taiwan is testing sea drones as a low-cost, effective defense tool against potential Chinese invasion, inspired by Ukraine's use. The "Swift and Sudden" project is part of broader asymmetric warfare development. These uncrewed, explosive-packed vessels promise to enhance Taiwan's military capabilities unpredictably.

Just off the small Taiwan fishing port of Wushi, a Taiwanese company is experimenting with a powerful yet unglamorous addition to the island's military arsenal — sea drones.

Drawing lessons from Ukraine's successful deployment in the Black Sea, Taiwan sees these explosive-laden, remotely controlled vessels as a cost-effective means of defense against potential Chinese aggression. Taiwan's transformation towards 'asymmetric warfare' is encouraged by the United States, aiming for mobile, affordable, yet impactful military tools like sea drones.

The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology's "Swift and Sudden" project, supported by Defence Minister Wellington Koo, plans to integrate sea drones into Taiwan's defense budget. Companies like Thunder Tiger and Lungteh Shipbuilding are showcasing these innovative uncrewed vehicles, enhancing Taiwan's unpredictable military posture.