Taiwan plans to deploy the high-energy explosive CL-20 across all domestically produced military drones, TVBS News reported.
According to the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), the explosive is a key national technology intended to increase the lethality of unmanned aerial and surface vehicles, including attack drones and unmanned boats.
NCSIST President Li Shih-chiang disclosed the plan during a parliamentary session, as lawmakers reviewed a ministry of defense report on military explosive procurement.
The discussion focused on supplier qualifications, verification procedures, and production security.
To address shortfalls, Taiwan plans to expand production lines, including purchasing 170 tons of key materials.
Li added that NCSIST is working with local chemical firms to produce non-hazardous precursor materials, which the institute will further process.
CL-20 has already been tested this year on a suicide unmanned surface vehicle and is set to be rolled out across a wider range of military platforms.
Focus on Drones
Taipei is stepping up its focus on drones as military pressure from China continues to grow.
Earlier this month, the Taiwanese navy issued a request for information for a suicide unmanned surface vessel, seeking a high-speed, long-range platform suited for contested maritime conditions.
The project also includes supporting systems such as a portable control station, a mobile command vehicle, and a relay station.
In November, the Taiwanese government outlined an updated drone strategy covering joint, tactical, and combat roles.
Under the initiative, uncrewed systems are tasked with reconnaissance, strike support, target identification, and extending the reach of existing weapons during sustained operations.
