Taiwan-US defense forum set for Taipei

台美國防產業論壇將於台北舉行

Forum to highlight drone and unmanned vehicle cooperation


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan-US Defense Industry Forum will be held on Wednesday at the Taipei International Convention Center.

The US-Taiwan Business Council will host the forum. According to the agency, the event is expected to explore potential cooperation between Taiwan and the US in the fields of drones and unmanned vehicles, per CNA.

US-Taiwan Business Council President Rupert Hammond-Chambers is scheduled to deliver welcoming remarks at the forum. Christine Wormuth, former secretary of the US Army, will give the opening address.

Chris Decker, president of Planate Management Group, and Stayne D. Hoff, Red Cat Holdings' Asia-Pacific region director for business development, are expected to deliver speeches on US-Taiwan defense industry cooperation at the event.

Raymond Greene, director of the American Institute in Taiwan, said that drones have become a key area of cooperation between Taiwan and the US. He noted that collaboration in this sector will focus on AI applications, supply chain integration, and investment.

Greene emphasized that drones play a critical role in safeguarding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He added that the two sides' close industrial ties will also bring significant economic benefits to both countries.

In June 2024, around 27 US defense contractors traveled to Taiwan to attend the forum. Discussions focused on showcasing Taiwan's defense industry capabilities in development and production, as well as promoting bilateral cooperation.

Steven Rudder, a retired US Marine Corps officer, attended last year's event and delivered the opening address. KMT Legislator and former Navy Commander Chen Yeong-kang (陳永康) also gave a keynote speech at the forum.

The forum has been held annually in Taiwan since 2018, with the first edition taking place in Kaohsiung.