Taiwan unveils its 1st attack drone similar to US-made Switchblade 300 amid China tensions

On Tuesday, Taiwan revealed its first portable attack drone, which bears a resemblance to an American model deployed in Ukraine's battle against Russia. unveiling comes amidst escalating military pressure from China, which claims island as part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to annex it.

With a population of 23.5 million, Taiwan lives under constant threat of an invasion from China. President Xi Jinping's assertive stance has only ded to alrey tense situation, and recent conflict in Ukraine has heightened concerns in Taiwan that China could act in a similar manner.

drone, unveiled by National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), a military organization, is similar to US-me Switchble 300, as per a report from Straits Times.  Taiwanese-manufactured drone is designed to be carried in a backpack and used as a single-use device. According to NCSIST, drone can remain airborne for 15 minutes and is comparable to a large grene that is capable of flying. he of NCSIST's Aeronautical Systems Research Division, Mr. Chi Li-pin, noted drone's lightweight and portable nature, which he said ds to its effectiveness.

A look at Taiwan-China conflict

conflict between Taiwan and China stems from China's claim that Taiwan is a part of its territory and should be reunited with mainland, while Taiwan maintains that it is an independent, sovereign state. disagreement dates back to Chinese Civil War in 1940s, when Communist Party of China (CPC) emerged victorious and established People's Republic of China (PRC) on mainland, while defeated Kuomintang (KMT) party retreated to Taiwan and continued to govern as Republic of China (ROC).

Since n, China has sought to pressure Taiwan to reunify, using diplomatic, economic, and military means. Beijing has refused to recognize Taiwan as a separate state and has blocked its participation in international organizations that require statehood for membership. China has also conducted military exercises near Taiwan, and in recent years, has stepped up its efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically by persuing countries to cut ties with Taipei and recognize Beijing inste.

Taiwan, for its part, has resisted China's pressure and sought to strengn its position internationally. It has built up its own military capabilities, sought closer ties with or countries, and sought to maintain its democratic system of government and way of life.