Taiwan’s state-run National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) has entered into a partnership with US firm AV for unmanned and precision strike systems.
Taiwan’s state-run National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) has entered into a partnership with US firm AV for unmanned and precision strike systems.
The signed memorandum of understanding establishes a framework for long-term collaboration, with AV providing technical expertise, training, and proven sustainment processes initially focused on its JUMP 20 and JUMP 20-X drones used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
In addition, both institutions will jointly develop unmanned systems and autonomy software, reinforcing Taipei’s defense readiness and resilience.
VP of International Business Development for AV, Justin McFarlin, noted that the partnership “underscores AV’s long-term commitment to supporting the defense needs of Taiwan and our allies in the Indo-Pacific region.”
“By combining the combat-proven effectiveness of AV systems with NCSIST’s advanced research and development capabilities, we are ensuring Taiwan can produce and sustain mission-critical systems, strengthen deterrence, and respond quickly to evolving threats.”
Boosting Taiwanese Defense
Taiwan has been significantly ramping up its drone capabilities to counter a potential Chinese invasion.
Apart from procuring thousands of drones and churning out homegrown uncrewed aerial systems, Taipei is also launching its first-ever army drone units.
Washington gifted AV JUMP 20 drones to Taiwan in 2023, Taiwan News quoted Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung as saying in a press conference.
Meanwhile, Taiwan ordered AV’s Switchblade 300 loitering munitions in 2024 and received the first batch of Anduril’s Altius kamikaze drones this year.
“Taiwan has clearly signaled a demand to strengthen its domestic defense ecosystem and a desire to expand its self-reliance in defense production and lifecycle management,” said Brian Anderson, AV’s Director of International Business Development for Asia Pacific.
