TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The military deployed an Albatross II drone during Friday’s (Aug. 23) live-fire drill, a military official said.

The drone's real-time information was transmitted through multiple channels and was sent back to various command and operations centers, providing real-time data, they said, per CNA. It also helped guide long-range coastal missiles to strike the target.

The official said the drone is designed for maritime reconnaissance missions, incorporating advanced domestic and foreign technologies. The Albatross II has an extended flight time, of up to 16 hours, and travels nearly 300 kilometers. It also has automatic short-field takeoff and landing capabilities, allowing it to operate from regular roads during wartime.

The drone can carry a variety of payloads, including an all-weather radar for maritime search and electronic surveillance equipment. The official said that with the help of satellites and AI technology, it can autonomously patrol and identify ships at sea, significantly improving maritime surveillance capabilities and expanding operational reach.

They said the drone will soon be mass-produced, adding that the UAV aligns with the military's force-building and equipment replacement plans.

Friday’s drill saw the launching of Hsiung Feng II and III missiles from navy ships and the deployment of Mirage, IDF, and F-16 fighter jets.