TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Two domestically produced Teng Yun unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) were spotted on Thursday (Nov. 5) at Chihhang (志航) Air Force Base in Taitung.

The drones are being developed by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST). Extensive testing started in early October, including flight endurance and nighttime reconnaissance capabilities, CNA reported.

A photo showing the two drones outside their hangars indicates they are first- and second-generation models of the Teng Yun, the report stated. The larger of the two UAVs has a slightly wider fuselage and a bigger air intake at the rear, resembling an American MQ-9 Reaper drone.

According to information from NCSIST, Teng Yun drones are capable of real-time imaging and can perform surveillance missions both during the day and night.

In related news, the U.S. State Department on Tuesday (Nov. 3) announced the sale of four MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones to Taiwan, along with related equipment and personnel training, a total value of US$600 million. While the MQ-9Bs can be armed with weapons, the four to be sold to Taiwan will reportedly be equipped for reconnaissance.