TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Matsu Defense Command has been bolstering its drone capabilities to adapt to a rapidly changing battlefield environment.
The command recently invited the Coast Guard, local fire departments, and other military and government agencies experienced in drone operations to hold a workshop on drone intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), Liberty Times reported. Participants exchanged views on the performance and mission characteristics of different unmanned systems, intelligence sharing, communications integration, and education and training.
The command said that through interagency exchanges, it is taking stock of existing drones and related equipment in the Matsu area and establishing mechanisms for coordination and intelligence sharing in peacetime and wartime, per Liberty Times. It also plans to integrate drones, unmanned surface vessels, and existing ISR systems so units can support one another based on mission requirements.
Matsu Defense Command Commander Lieutenant General Yin Chang-jung (尹昌榮) said Matsu’s distinctive terrain and location make it vital to develop unmanned-system applications suited to operational requirements, according to Liberty Times. The Russia-Ukraine war and recent conflicts in the Middle East have demonstrated that drones have evolved beyond simple ISR missions to encompass target acquisition, communications relay, combat operations, and logistics support, Yin said.
In addition to establishing a drone squadron and setting up specialized classrooms and training facilities, the command is conducting basic operations and instructor training to gradually develop drone operators and instructors, per Liberty Times. It is also testing drones for logistics support missions.
