The US and Taiwan plan to accelerate military drone cooperation in 2026 as Washington advances a large procurement program and Congress moves forward with legislation calling for joint development. The efforts are expected to create opportunities for Taiwanese manufacturers in key technologies, supply chains, and overseas markets, according to industry executives.

Taiwan and the US plan to procure nearly half a million military drones over the next two years, a rapid buildup that is driving manufacturers to expand production, localize components, and secure testing facilities. The surge in demand is emerging as a key test of whether the drone supply chain can scale fast enough to support large defense programs.

The US is accelerating efforts to rebuild a secure, China-free drone supply chain as Beijing's gains in unmanned aircraft technology and production put growing pressure on Washington's defense and law-enforcement agencies.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has opened bidding for what officials say will be the country's largest military drone purchase yet, a five-model program covering 48,000 unmanned aircraft valued at up to NT$50 billion (approx. US$1.55 billion). The tender lays out technical requirements for drones to be delivered between 2026 and 2027 and signals the start of mass production for Taiwan's fast-growing defense UAV industry.

Data Image, Qisda Group's display subsidiary, is moving into the drone market and is preparing a new production line in Taoyuan to support growing demand. President Phil Yu said the company is developing high-brightness, ruggedized screens for drone controllers and outdoor consoles, with the line currently in trial production.