European companies made a strong presence at a defense exhibition in Taipei for the first time in a decade, supporting Taiwan against China’s aggression.
Europe increases its role in Taiwan’s arms market
The defense exhibition in Taipei has become a landmark event for Taiwan, marking the first time in a decade that European companies and delegations have made a strong presence there. The island, which has traditionally relied on the United States for arms, has received new signals of support from Europe, including the Czech Republic and Germany.
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo visited the Czech pavilion, where he was met by the head of the Czech Senate committee, Pavel Fischer. “Today, Taiwan has many partners for cooperation,” he said, emphasizing the shared experience of countering authoritarian regimes.
Airbus and Germany take steps towards cooperation
The German Trade Office in Taipei participated in the exhibition for the first time, showcasing advancements in aerospace and defense. Airbus also introduced its Flexrotor, a tactical drone capable of vertical take-off and landing, designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. A sticker on the fuselage displayed the message: “I ❤️ Taiwan.”
Airbus also presented other solutions, from helicopters for rescue missions to secure communication systems, underscoring the company’s broader interest in cooperation with Taiwan.
Historical context and new reality
Europe has not sold Taiwan large-scale weapons systems since the early 1990s, after China’s painful reactions to the Dutch and French deals. Since then, the continent has shown caution, unlike the United States, which remained the main supplier.
But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has changed the balance of power. Europe is increasingly unwilling to accept Chinese dictates, opening the way for renewed defense ties with Taiwan.
Less caution, more cooperation
Britain is already helping Taipei build its own submarines, and a number of European companies are working with Taiwanese drone manufacturers. As one local defense entrepreneur put it: “The world has changed because of Ukraine. There is much less caution.”
