Taiwan's military plans to deploy four-legged robots and unmanned ground vehicles this year as part of a modernization strategy that integrates civilian technology into national defense, Defense Minister Wellington Koo(顧立雄) said.
The move to acquire "robot dogs" and other autonomous systems is spearheaded by the Defense Innovation Unit, an office established in February 2024 and modeled after the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit. The unit is tasked with evaluating mature civilian technologies for military application.
Koo said the ministry will undertake three prototype development projects in 2026, including satellite imagery AI recognition systems, augmented reality combat interfaces, and intelligent warehouse management systems.
In addition to the prototypes, the military intends to conduct small-batch procurement and field testing for a range of emerging technologies. These include tethered drones, light weapon fire control systems, acoustic tracking devices, underwater gliders, and laser communication systems.
“Investing in national defense means investing in peace,” Koo said, emphasizing that Taiwan must rely on its own capabilities to secure external assistance.
To support these technological advances, the ministry established an AI Project Office in October to oversee data governance and standard-setting for artificial intelligence applications. Koo noted that the office focuses on ensuring data accuracy and usability to accelerate digital governance within the armed forces.
The Defense Ministry also reported that it executed 130 research projects last year, focusing on counter-reconnaissance, electronic protection, aerospace propulsion, and asymmetric warfare technologies.
Koo urged the Legislative Yuan to expedite the review of a special procurement ordinance designed to strengthen the island’s defensive resilience.
