Taiwan’s latest defence exhibition has underscored the island’s determination to bolster its military capabilities amid escalating tensions with China. The Taipei Aerospace and Defence Technology Exhibition (TADTE), held this week, showcased two landmark projects that reflect Taiwan’s dual strategy of fostering self-reliance while deepening ties with foreign defence partners.
The event, which drew more than 400 exhibitors from 14 countries, including the United States, Germany, and France, has become a critical platform for Taiwan to demonstrate its growing defence ambitions. This year’s edition, however, carried added weight as cross-strait tensions continue to rise, pushing Taiwan to accelerate its military modernisation efforts.
At the forefront of the exhibition was the unveiling of the Chiang-Kong (Strong Bow) anti-ballistic missile system, developed by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST). Designed to intercept enemy ballistic missiles at altitudes of up to 70 km (44 miles), the system represents a significant leap in Taiwan’s layered missile defence strategy. By filling the medium-range gap between the US-made Patriot PAC-3 and Taiwan’s indigenous Tien Kung III, the Chiang-Kong system strengthens the island’s ability to counter potential missile threats from China.
“This system is a game-changer for Taiwan’s defence,” said a senior NCSIST official at the exhibition. “It enhances our ability to protect critical infrastructure and civilian populations from long-range missile attacks.”
Alongside the Chiang-Kong system, Taiwan also showcased the Barracuda-500, a low-cost autonomous cruise missile co-developed with California-based defence startup Anduril Industries. The collaboration highlights Taiwan’s willingness to leverage foreign expertise while advancing its own defence industrial base. The Barracuda-500, with its advanced autonomous capabilities, is expected to play a crucial role in Taiwan’s asymmetric defence strategy, allowing for precision strikes against high-value targets while minimising collateral damage.
The Barracuda-500’s development reflects a broader trend in Taiwan’s defence strategy, which increasingly relies on partnerships with US firms to counterbalance China’s military dominance. The missile’s low-cost design and autonomous features make it an attractive option for Taiwan’s defence forces, which are focused on deterrence and rapid response.
“This is not just about acquiring technology; it’s about building a sustainable defence ecosystem,” said a representative from Anduril Industries. “By working with Taiwan, we’re helping to create a more resilient and capable defence infrastructure in the region.”
The exhibition also underscored Taiwan’s growing confidence in its defence capabilities. The display of the Chiang-Kong system, including its launcher and fire-control radar, sent a clear message to potential adversaries about Taiwan’s commitment to self-defence. The event also provided an opportunity for Taiwan to showcase its technological advancements to international partners, reinforcing its role as a key player in regional security.
As Taiwan continues to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific, its defence strategy will likely remain focused on a combination of self-reliance and strategic partnerships. The unveiling of the Chiang-Kong and Barracuda-500 systems at TADTE signals a new phase in Taiwan’s defence modernisation, one that prioritises innovation, collaboration, and deterrence in the face of growing military threats.