TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Around 28 Taiwanese drone companies are showcasing military and commercial drones and key components at Xponential in the US, highlighting the nation’s growing role in a China-free supply chain, CNA reported.
The four-day expo, which runs through Thursday in Detroit, has drawn more than 550 exhibitors worldwide. The event showcases uncrewed systems, robotics, and AI technologies, ranging from experimental prototypes to real-world applications.
Lu Wen-tsan (盧文燦), an official at the Industrial Development Administration, said the government has backed major domestic drone manufacturers in forming an alliance aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s capabilities in UAV systems, modules, and material supply chains.
The alliance has also participated in other international drone exhibitions to expand the global reach of Taiwan’s drone sector. Lu added the Russia-Ukraine war has sped up drone adoption worldwide, underscoring Taiwan’s potential to play a key role in building a non-China UAV supply chain among democratic partners.
The ministry said Taiwan’s booth is showcasing detection, surveillance, communication, and payload systems developed by local companies. It is also presenting drone software powered by Nvidia chips, including image analysis and flight path planning.
Thunder Tiger, one of the exhibitors at Taiwan’s booth, said its Overkill FPV drone was included last year on the US Department of Defense Blue UAS Cleared List, allowing US government agencies to procure it without additional approval.
The company noted it has set up a new plant in Ohio and begun producing key UAV components and motors in the first quarter of this year. The company is seeking to secure more orders from the US market through this expansion.
In April, the company unveiled plans for mass production of its new Papa Delta military kamikaze drone, which is under development and designed for low-cost combat operations. The UAV’s airframe will use aluminum alloy stamping technology to speed up production.
Charlie Chiang (江振瑋), director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department of NGO International Affairs, said the government aims to help domestic drone manufacturers build a global presence similar to the semiconductor sector. He added the ministry will work with other government agencies to secure more international orders and strengthen Taiwan’s diplomatic influence through drone tech.
The ministry’s International Drone Academy signed a cooperation agreement with the US Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International at the event. The partnership will focus on talent training, UAV R&D, and cybersecurity certification.
