Taiwan’s Republic of China Air Force anticipates delivery of its first two MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from the United States in the third quarter of 2026, with the remaining pair following in 2027. Air Force Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Lee Ching-jan confirmed the schedule during a March 16, 2026, legislative session, dispelling earlier concerns over potential delays linked to Middle East conflicts.
The $217.6 million Foreign Military Sales contract, awarded to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems in May 2023, encompasses four MQ-9B unmanned aerial vehicles, two certifiable ground control stations, spares, and support equipment. Originally slated for completion by May 2025, the program includes an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance suite featuring L3Harris Wescam MX-20 electro-optical/infrared sensors, Raytheon SeaVue maritime patrol radar, and Leonardo Sage 750 electronic surveillance system.
With a 79-foot wingspan, nine hardpoints, and a 4,750-pound external payload capacity, the MQ-9B offers extended endurance and high-altitude operations exceeding manned platforms. These attributes enable persistent monitoring of Chinese air, naval, and gray-zone activities, rapid vessel detection in Taiwanese waters, battle damage assessment, and data relay to coastal defenses and over-the-horizon targeting networks. Satellite-compatible communications facilitate real-time intelligence sharing with U.S. allies, enhancing cross-strait deterrence amid frequent People’s Liberation Army incursions and North Asian shipping lane security.
Defense Minister Wellington Koo affirmed no Middle East war impacts on weapons deliveries, underscoring close coordination with U.S. counterparts to maintain timelines.