Taiwan should invest in unmanned systems, says AIT director

American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Director Brent Christensen encouraged Taiwan to bolster its defense capabilities and societal resilience, particularly through investments in unmanned systems and other emerging technologies. He spoke at the "Supply Chain Resilience Strategy International Summit" in Taipei, organized by the DSET, which brought together experts from Taiwan, the U.S., Japan, and Ukraine.

Christensen noted that Taiwan's recent passage of a special defense budget is a crucial first step in strengthening its defensive capacity. He emphasized the growing importance of supply chain security and the deepening U.S.-Taiwan cooperation in advanced technologies. Taiwan plays a pivotal role in critical sectors like semiconductors, energy, data infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing, which are essential for ensuring AI develops safely and resiliently.

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Taiwan's passage of a special defense budget is an important first step in strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities. We look forward to Taiwan continuing to invest in military deterrence and societal resilience, especially in emerging technology fields such as unmanned systems.

The summit addressed four key themes: semiconductors, artificial intelligence, energy security, and drone supply chains. The goal was to explore how democratic partners can enhance technological collaboration and global supply chain resilience. Nearly 600 industry, government, and academic professionals attended the event. U.S. House Select Committee on Strategic Competition with China Chairman Mike Gallagher also addressed the summit via video, commending Taiwan's resilience amidst complex security challenges and affirming that Taiwan's commitment to its own security underpins the robust U.S.-Taiwan relationship.

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Taiwan is not only one of the United States' important trading partners but also a key node in the advanced manufacturing and semiconductor supply chain. Deepening U.S.-Taiwan cooperation will not only promote U.S. re-industrialization but also strengthen global supply chain resilience and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.