Taiwan to Collaborate with Anduril on Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Overview of the Initiative
The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) announced plans to co-develop two autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) in partnership with Anduril Industries, enhancing Taiwan’s military capabilities. This collaboration was unveiled at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE) 2025, held from September 18 to 20.
AUVs on Display
At the exhibition, the NCSIST showcased:
- Copperhead C-500M
- Dive-LD
These advanced vehicles signify a strategic investment in unmanned capabilities, aimed at improving operational effectiveness within littoral and coastal environments.
Strategic Collaboration Goals
A project official indicated that collaborative efforts with Anduril will commence within the forthcoming months, with a particular focus on customizing the AUVs to meet specific requirements of the Republic of China (RoC) military. Key points include:
- Customization: Tailored adaptations to align with the operational demands of Taiwan’s defense strategy.
- Implementation Timeline: Agreements for both projects are expected to be formalized by the end of 2025. However, details regarding the financial commitments and the scope of potential deployments remain confidential.
Technical Specifications of the Dive-LD
The Dive-LD is engineered for both shallow and deep-sea missions. Notable specifications include:
- Dimensions: 5.8 meters in length, 1.2 meters in diameter.
- Weight: 2,720 kg (dry).
- Capabilities: Designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
- Endurance: Capable of remaining submerged for up to 10 days, with a maximum operational depth of 6,000 meters.
- Modularity: Various mission configurations can be accommodated based on operational requirements.
Future Development Plans
NCSIST aims to expedite collaboration with Anduril to ensure that the Dive-LD is specifically adapted for the Taiwanese context by the end of 2025. As stated by a project official:
- “We will tailor the platform to integrate multibeam sonar capabilities for mine and submarine detection.”
This initiative is expected to significantly bolster Taiwan’s underwater operational capabilities, enhancing its maritime defense framework amidst regional security challenges.
Implications for Regional Security
The co-production of these AUVs underscores Taiwan’s commitment to fortifying its defense infrastructure and responding proactively to maritime threats. By investing in state-of-the-art technology, Taiwan aims to maintain a strategic advantage in an increasingly complex security landscape.
