ITRI to Form Unmanned Vehicle Alliance, Seeks Collaboration with Overseas Startups

Hsinchu, May 17 (CNA) - While Taiwan possesses the world's strongest high-end chips and rapid manufacturing capabilities, it still lacks software capabilities in the system-integration-focused drone industry. Wu Tsung-tsong, Chairman of the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), said that ITRI is not only forming an unmanned vehicle systems R&D alliance domestically but is also seeking collaboration with overseas startups to complete its technology portfolio. In an exclusive interview with CNA, Wu stated that the Russo-Ukrainian War has brought drones into the global spotlight. He believes drones will soon expand from defense to civilian applications like factory inspections. 'Drones are just the beginning,' he said, 'unmanned vehicles for land, sea, air, and space will be the next industrial boom, presenting a massive opportunity for Taiwan's industry.' Wu analyzed that a drone can be seen as a flying computer, requiring hardware, chips, and software. 'Rapid manufacturing and high-end chips are Taiwan's strengths, but software is our relatively weaker area,' he noted. He emphasized that future industries must move beyond components towards systems, requiring Taiwan to enhance cross-disciplinary integration and international cooperation. With cybersecurity and a 'non-red supply chain' being two critical factors for unmanned vehicles, Taiwan can play a significant role in the democratic supply chain. Wu estimates Taiwan lags Europe and the U.S. in the drone sector by about 2-3 years, but since global standards are not yet set, Taiwan has a chance to catch up. He announced ITRI is forming an 'Unmanned Vehicle Systems R&D Alliance' to create a platform for companies to learn from each other and identify and fill technology gaps. The alliance will launch 'as soon as possible' this year. Wu stressed that the real market is international and that Taiwan should collaborate with Europe, the U.S., and Japan. ITRI's overseas offices will now be tasked with connecting with local markets and especially startups, which are key sources of innovation. 'If Taiwan can combine the forces of private enterprises and legal entities like ITRI, with full government support, it has the opportunity to become the Asia-Pacific drone innovation R&D center,' Wu concluded. (Editor: Chang Liang-chih)