US Must Invest in Long-Range Drones to Counter Potential Chinese Invasion of Taiwan, Says Think Tank

A Washington, DC-based think tank has advised that the United States military needs to invest in long-range drones to effectively counter a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. The Center for a New American Security (CNAS), which monitors developments in Taiwan, reported that China is in a favorable position to leverage its extensive fleet of drones to gain a significant advantage in the event of an armed conflict.

The Drone Gap

CNAS emphasizes that the US and Taiwan need to address this disparity by rapidly acquiring a substantial number of long-range drones. These drones should be a mix of sophisticated and cost-effective systems to carry out missions in heavily contested airspaces and to ensure quick replacements for those lost during operations. The report also suggests that the fleet should include autonomous kamikaze drones designed to target Chinese warships and potentially overwhelm enemy air defenses.

Current US Drone Capabilities

Currently, the US military operates advanced drones such as the MQ-9 Reaper, which has a range of 1,150 miles (1,850 kilometers), and the RQ-4 Global Hawk, capable of flying up to 14,155 miles (22,779 kilometers). However, CNAS argues that these existing assets might not be sufficient for a conflict with China, which has a numerical and manufacturing advantage in drones.

Challenges and Strategic Considerations

Stacie Pettyjohn, CNAS defense director and co-author of the report, expressed concerns about the fairness of a potential conflict. She pointed out that China can produce cheaper drones in larger quantities, allowing for rapid deployment in a conflict scenario. Additionally, the US faces logistical challenges in deploying and operating drones in Taiwan from bases located hundreds of miles away.

“There are a lot of things that are stacked up against the US when it’s playing an away game,” Pettyjohn said. “But I think the US can do a lot of things to level the playing field somewhat.”

Need for Taiwanese Investment

The report also urges Taiwan to heavily invest in its own uncrewed capabilities. Given the potential delay in US forces reaching Taiwan after the start of a conflict, it is crucial for Taiwan to build a robust drone fleet for self-defense.

Rising Tensions

China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has indicated a willingness to reunite with it by force if necessary. US intelligence suggests that China is on track for a full-scale invasion of Taiwan by 2027. This escalating tension underlines the urgency for both the US and Taiwan to enhance their defensive capabilities.