Taiwan bets on drone ‘hellscape’ to deter possible Chinese invasion

By The Straits Times | Created at 2026-08-10 01:41:31 | Updated at 2026-08-10 02:35:28 1 hour ago

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Chris Buckley and Amy Chang Chien

  • Taiwan is building large fleets of drones and unmanned attack boats to deter a possible Chinese invasion using a strategy called a “hellscape” to overwhelm enemy forces.
  • Inspired by Ukraine’s drone tactics, Taiwan aims to produce 100,000 drones monthly by 2030 and train troops to use and counter drones effectively in warfare.
  • Taiwan is growing its drone industry rapidly, exporting drones and components to support defence and reduce reliance on Chinese parts amid rising geopolitical tensions.

TAIPEI – To repel any future Chinese invasion, Taiwan is building fleets of flying drones and unmanned attack boats.

The goal is to use them to help locate and attack Chinese forces approaching the island, relying on Taiwanese soldiers trained to move quickly before China can strike them.

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