Taiwan Developing Weapons-Capable UAV

Taiwan's military is developing weapons-capable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) with some stealth capabilities at the Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, an official at the institute told CNA Friday.

This will mark the first armed UAV from the military-run research center, which has developed various tactical drones for surveillance and reconnaissance that cannot carry weapons, according to the source familiar with the institute's project, who requested anonymity.

Unlike previous models, the drone under development boasts short wings, stealth features and a weapons cabin that can carry missiles and bombs, the official said.

"The new UAV would be able to evade radar detection as its body is made from radar-absorbent materials," the official added.

The revelation came on the sidelines of a defense technology exhibition at Taoyuan County Stadium.

A dazzling array of high-tech devices and equipment developed under civilian and military collaborative projects are on display.

Exhibits featured at the Dec. 6-7 event include a variety of UAVs, Hsiung Feng (Brave Wind) III anti-ship missiles and Tien Kung (Sky Bow) III air defense missiles, as well as sophisticated devices in the fields of aerospace and green technology. 

(By Claudia Liu and Sofia Wu) [via]