Taiwan has been stepping up efforts to mass-produce drones to bolster defense capabilities. Rumor has it that Taiwan is now also considering purchasing military drones from the U.S.
Video script:
A small black helicopter takes off from the hand of a soldier and quickly travels up in the air. While it may look like a toy, this is actually an exceptionally tiny and quiet drone flown by militaries around the world.
The Black Hornet Nano is a military micro unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Prox Dynamics AS of Norway. It measures 10 cm by 2.5 cm and weighs only 16 grams including the battery. This miniature helicopter can fly for 25 minutes at a speed of 18 km/h and can be used for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes.
With Taiwan working on its defense capabilities, U.S. military consultants have been training military special operations forces in the use of the drones, stirring up rumors that Taiwan is considering making a purchase.
Defense Strategy and Resources Director Su Tzu-yun (蘇紫雲) of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research said that such drones reduce the chances of ambush. They can gather information remotely and stream images to combat troops showing them a clearer map of the battlefield.
Regarding rumors on a possible purchase of the drones from the U.S., the Defense Ministry had no comment except to state that all military training and exchanges are in accordance with the annual plan.