Taiwan Receives First Batch of U.S.-Made Altius 600M Drones

The Republic of China (Taiwan) has received its first shipment of Altius 600M military drones purchased from the United States.

The Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China confirmed the delivery, stating that the American-made, multi-purpose drones – produced by defense contractor Anduril – arrived on August 4.

Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng emphasized that the successful acquisition of the Altius 600M drones reflects the military’s determination to adapt to evolving battlefield conditions and accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies.

“It is also highly significant that Taiwan and the United States are working together to leverage cutting-edge technologies in countering the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and in safeguarding regional peace and stability,” the minister said.

Militarnyi reported that Taiwan purchased these American drones last June.

The estimated cost for the acquisition of 291 units is approximately $300 million.

In addition to the drones themselves, the purchase also includes auxiliary equipment, training UAVs, logistics services, and engineering support.

Altius 600M

The Altius 600M is a multi-purpose unmanned aerial system featuring a modular design and capable of carrying a payload of up to 3 kilograms. This includes everything from warheads for use as a loitering munition (kamikaze drone) to advanced optical systems and electronic warfare equipment.

Measuring 1 meter in length and weighing around 12 kilograms, the drone can be launched from various platforms thanks to its transport and launch container equipped with a pneumatic launch system.

Its 2.54-meter wingspan quickly deploys after being ejected from the launch container, after which a rear-mounted engine with a two-blade propeller is activated.

The drone is controlled either manually by an operator from a ground control station or autonomously via a pre-programmed route. It can stay airborne for up to 4 hours and has a maximum range of up to 440 kilometers.