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Taiwan to get tactical boost with Nato’s Link 22 and US SeaGuardian drones: analysts
- Nato communications system and drones seen as part of American integrated defence strategy
- Island’s existing system works for US weapons but not the French frigates and jets in its arsenal
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Taiwan’s acquisition of Nato’s Link 22 tactical communications system will bolster the island’s defences, especially with the planned addition of four advanced surveillance and reconnaissance drones from the United States, military experts said.
A senior Taiwanese defence official confirmed last month that the US would help the self-ruled island to acquire the advanced data link and radio system.
Taiwan is also expecting to take delivery of powerful MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones in 2025 after the US State Department approved the US$600 million deal three years ago.
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Experts said that in a conflict with the mainland Link 22 would be a highly valuable defence communications asset for Taiwan, which does not have its own satellite system.
“Taiwan’s acquisition of Nato’s Link 22 will enable it to operate the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones to be provided by the US,” Taipei-based military commentator Chi Le-yi said.
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“[The US] sale of four MQ-9Bs to Taiwan and its acquisition of Link 22 for support could be seen as a part of the US integrated deterrence strategy in light of the increasing risk of military conflict between Taiwan and the mainland.”
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