How useful are the Ukraine and Iran wars to Taiwan’s defence strategy?
Taipei’s upcoming 2027 defence budget is likely to focus on drones and asymmetric warfare but adapting them to local conditions may be difficult.
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A Taiwanese military Tactical-2 unmanned aerial vehicle being deployed in Changhua county during the annual Han Kuang exercises in August.
PHOTO: AFP
Drone and counter-drone drills were a big feature in the 2026 Han Kuang military exercises, clearly reflecting the influence of the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Iran.
And that’s not all. The 2027 defence budget to be unveiled on Aug 20 is also expected to include major investments in drones, unmanned vessels and other systems designed for asymmetric warfare.
