According to information released by the Taiwanese Air Force (ROCAF), the first MQ-9B “SkyGuardian” drones purchased from the United States could arrive by the end of next year, marking a new step in the modernization process of Taiwan’s Armed Forces’ intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities amid China’s increasing military activity.
During a legislative session, the Chief of Staff of the Taiwanese Air Force confirmed that the first two units, out of a total of four unmanned aircraft included in a contract signed in 2023, would be delivered according to schedule, while the remaining ones would arrive during 2027.
It is important to note that the acquisition of these aircraft is part of other previous contracts authorized by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). In 2022, both countries signed an agreement to ensure the supply of four MQ-9B drones in their SeaGuardian variant, for a total of USD 555 million. Later, in May 2023, the U.S. Air Force formalized another contract with General Atomics for the delivery of four MQ-9B units in the SkyGuardian version. At the time, it was clarified that this contract was part of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, with a ceiling value of USD 217.6 million.
As months went by, in March 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense announced an expansion and the awarding of a new USD 250 million contract to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. for the supply of four MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones.
This latest agreement also included the aircraft themselves, ground control systems, support equipment, training, and technical assistance. It was part of a complementary deal aimed at enhancing surveillance and deterrence capabilities over the Taiwan Strait, amid a regional context marked by the increasing number of aerial and naval incursions by the People’s Republic of China. Beyond this, the Air Force has stated that the incorporation of these drones will allow Taiwan to expand its ISR coverage across the Western Pacific, strengthening its maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
MQ-9B SkyGuardian
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a remotely piloted aerial system that provides persistent, worldwide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). The SkyGuardian is designed to operate via satellite for up to 40 hours in all weather conditions and to integrate safely into civil airspace, enabling joint forces and civilian authorities to deliver real-time situational awareness anywhere in the world, day or night. The aircraft is equipped with the Lynx multi-mode radar, an advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor, automatic takeoff and landing capabilities, and features a larger wingspan than its predecessors, measuring 24 meters.
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