The Taiwanese government announced a major investment of NT$44.2 billion (US$1.36 billion) to develop a new fleet of advanced drones. The plan, unveiled on October 16, 2025, aims to produce 26 types of high-endurance drones designed for extreme conditions. Officials said the initiative is a core part of a strategy to bolster national defense and establish Taiwan as a key partner in a “democratic drone supply chain” for the Asia-Pacific region.