TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Drone software firm Auterion has signed a deal with Taiwan’s top defense research institute to develop drone software systems, Reuters reported Tuesday.
Auterion, a US and Germany-based company, said its software has been used in Ukrainian drones to destroy tanks and naval vessels. The agreement with National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) focuses on autonomous drones and swarming capabilities.
Speaking at a sea drone showcase in Suao in Yilan County on Tuesday, Auterion CEO Lorenz Meier said the technology could enable Taiwan to build a large autonomous fleet capable of deterring China.
“What we're bringing to the table has been combat-proven in Ukraine to deter aggression and destroy tanks, naval assets, and other really expensive equipment,” he said. “So by building a large autonomous fleet, Taiwan can deter China.”
Meier described the partnership as a long-term commitment, potentially involving millions of drones and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in value. He emphasized that the agreement aims to scale up Taiwan’s drone defense over multiple years.
The deal comes as Taiwan accelerates its shift toward asymmetric warfare, using smaller, mobile systems like drones and truck-mounted missiles. The effort is backed by the US and modeled in part on Ukraine’s defense strategy against a larger adversary.
Taiwanese defense officials say Ukraine’s aerial and sea drones have shown how lower-cost technology can offset traditional military disadvantages. Kyiv’s sea drones have been used not only to strike Russia’s Black Sea fleet but also to shoot down aircraft.
At the Suao exhibition, several types of sea drones were on display, including kamikaze models for explosive strikes and smaller reconnaissance craft. NCSIST invited five foreign firms, including Auterion, to participate in the event.
NCSIST President Li Shih-chiang (李世強) thanked foreign participants and warned them about likely consequences from China. “I believe you will soon be sanctioned by the Chinese government, but do not fear, because you have chosen the democratic camp,” he said.
