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Feb 2, 08:04
SpaceX weighs merger with Tesla or xAI ahead of planned IPO
SpaceX is in discussions to merge with other companies controlled by Elon Musk, including artificial intelligence startup xAI, as the rocket manufacturer prepares for a potential initial public offering later this year, Reuters reported.
Taiwan has introduced an initiative to strengthen its air defense system by integrating US-made and domestically produced missiles and radars into a networked kill chain that it calls the "Taiwan Shield," or "Taiwan Dome." Such a program has drawn attention to the strategic value of integrated battle command systems (IBCS). Currently, proposals from US companies, Northrop Grumman and Anduril Industries, are under consideration by Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science & Technology (NCSIST).

"Taiwan Dome" has emerged as a key concept in Taiwan's defense strategy, drawing increased attention across the defense and technology sectors. The approach centers on system integration to build a networked combat architecture, placing greater emphasis on command platforms capable of coordinating operations across multiple domains. Alongside close cooperation between Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense and the US to introduce advanced technologies, Taiwanese companies are also expanding their investments in related areas.

China's National Space Administration (CNSA) announced a strategic initiative on November 25, 2025, intending to make China the world leader in commercial space activities by 2027. The plan, unveiled in Beijing, details reforms designed to mobilize private-sector innovation, integrate national resources, and enhance international cooperation in the space industry.

G-Tech Optoelectronics (GTOC) said its wholly owned subsidiary has partnered with US defense technology startup Firestorm Labs and aerospace and defense solutions provider Aerkomm to advance next-generation military drone production and combat system integration, marking GTOC's entry into the military-grade unmanned aerial vehicle market. The company plans to establish a drone assembly line in Taiwan.

Blue Origin announced plans to deploy TeraWave, a new satellite communication network designed to provide up to 6Tbps of global data transmission capacity, starting in the fourth quarter of 2027. The network will serve enterprises, data centers, and government agencies, marking Blue Origin's strategic entry into the enterprise-grade satellite communications market, while avoiding direct competition with consumer-focused providers.
The US decision to cut tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15% signals deeper cooperation in semiconductors, defense, and AI. However, Taiwanese firms still face high barriers entering tightly regulated defense and aerospace supply chains.
The US views Taiwan as a key partner in advancing defense technologies, and is working closely with Taiwan's industry to combine the US's strengths in R&D and innovation with Taiwan's manufacturing and hardware expertise, according to American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) director Raymond Green.
Taiwan's Excellence Drone International Business Opportunities Alliance has expanded to more than 260 member companies as it steps up efforts to capture overseas demand, with securing US regulatory clearance emerging as its top priority for 2026.

As demand accelerates for satellite connectivity and AI in space, China's push into orbital computing is showing new momentum.

Global investment in the space industry has reached a historic inflection point and is poised to climb further in 2026, driven by sustained government spending on defense-related satellite systems and growing private-sector bets on launch capabilities, according to a research report by the investment firm Seraphim Space.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has released select non-classified details of a special military procurement package totaling NT$1.25 trillion (approx. US$39.5 billion), offering a clearer picture of a strategic shift from conventional warfare toward technology-driven operations.