SpaceX achieved new feats during the sixth major test launch of its Starship system but nixed an eagerly anticipated midair "catch" of the rocket's booster as President-elect Donald Trump looked on in South Texas.
CETC Chips Technology has disclosed that its BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (DBS) SoCs have been adopted by China's top-5 handset vendors for multiple midrange to high-end smartphone models.
In response to circulating online rumors that SpaceX has requested its Taiwanese suppliers to relocate manufacturing operations abroad, Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) promptly contacted relevant Taiwanese manufacturers. According to those suppliers, it is standard practice to adjust manufacturing schedules to meet global clients' customized needs. They further emphasized that during the recent US election period, there were no requests from SpaceX to move production facilities overseas. The MOEA strongly encourages the public not to misinterpret or exaggerate this matter, and reminds everyone to verify the accuracy of their information sources.
The global aerospace supply chain faces unprecedented volatility, creating a rare opening for Taiwan and Asia-based manufacturers. Additionally, President-Elect Donald Trump's renewed focus on "protection fees" for Taiwan has raised concern about potential impacts on US-Taiwan military relations.
US defense technology companies are increasingly looking to Taiwan as a critical manufacturing base and supply chain partner, as revealed during a recent Arizona-led trade delegation to Taipei. The mission, which included four emerging defense tech firms, highlights growing bilateral cooperation in aerospace and defense amid rising regional tensions.
With heightened US-China tech competition looming ahead of the US presidential election, one outcome seems certain: the rivalry—especially in drones—will only accelerate efforts to reduce dependency on Chinese suppliers. The commercial drone market, in particular, is garnering strong interest as firms eye the gaps left by DJI, the leading player now facing tougher restrictions. Industry analysts predict DJI may face challenges in the commercial and specialized markets, though its consumer base likely won't be affected.
Taiwan's drone industry is second in the world, behind only China's, according to Andrew Ng, general partner at AI Fund, which is aiming to advance AI applications in drones. Speaking on the eve of the US presidential election, Ng reflected on the significance of democracy and expressed hope that AI development can flourish in a democratic Taiwan.
Located near London, UK, Silverstone—home to the Formula 1 British Grand Prix since 1950—has evolved into much more than a racetrack. The venue now serves as a hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation. The Silverstone Technology Cluster (STC), established in 2016, leverages the region's motorsport heritage to advance fields including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, digital technology, and industrial engineering.
Luxembourg-based satellite telecom operator OQ Technology is testing investor appetite for space-based Internet of Things (IoT) technology, seeking EUR 30 million in fresh funding as competition intensifies in the nascent market for satellite-enabled device connectivity.
Carbon-Based Technology recently delivered its "Albatross II" drone to Taiwan's Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) alongside Air Asia Company Limited (AACL). However, due to budget constraints for next year that have halted production, the company's plans for scaling up the advanced drone are temporarily on hold. Despite the setback, Carbon-Based Technology states it has readied production capacity and will now target high-demand commercial markets in Northeast and Southeast Asia.
As the only Taiwanese exhibitor at the 2024 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) show, Thunder Tiger is strengthening its presence for the second consecutive year, demonstrating notable evolution in its offerings.
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