Maritime Tactical Systems (MARTAC), a US-based unmanned surface vessel (USV) developer, has signed a tripartite agreement with its Taiwanese sales partner, Confucian, and Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) to boost unmanned naval capabilities. The memorandum of understanding outlines a framework for joint research, development, and eventual co-production of MARTAC’s surface craft in Taiwan.
The collaboration aims to strengthen technological partnerships through knowledge sharing, mutual industrial support, and integration of local supply chains. The agreement also highlights a focus on workforce development, ensuring Taiwan strengthens its indigenous shipbuilding and defense production capacities.
As tensions in the Taiwan Strait continue to rise, Taipei has intensified efforts to fortify its defense posture against possible Chinese military action. Investing in advanced unmanned platforms, both through local programs and international partnerships, has become a critical element of its defense strategy.
This latest deal aligns with Taiwan’s broader policy of expanding cooperation with global defense firms. Earlier this month, NCSIST announced a long-term partnership with AV for unmanned and precision strike systems. It also entered into cooperation with US-based Kratos to develop the Mighty Hornet IV, a high-speed attack drone derived from an existing target platform. Additionally, Shield AI, the maker of the V-BAT drone, partnered with Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) to expand Taiwan’s aerospace industrial base and drive innovation in domestic defense technologies.
