Taiwan flight-tests MQ-9B drones to counter PLA grey-zone operations

Taiwan conducted the first test flight of its newly delivered MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from Hualien Air Base, marking a significant enhancement in its long-range maritime surveillance capability. The drones are intended to monitor PLA and grey-zone activities across Taiwan's surrounding waters, reflecting a continued buildup of asymmetric defense capabilities. The operational impact will depend on integration and subsequent deployment patterns.