National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology

{{Short description|Taiwanese defense company}}

{{Infobox company

| name = National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology

| native_name = 國家中山科學研究院

| logo =

| type = administrative corporation

| industry = Defense and Manufacturing

| fate =

| predecessor = Armaments Bureau

| successor =

| founded = {{Start date and age|1969|06|01|df=y}}

| founder =

| defunct =

| hq_location_city = Taoyuan City

| hq_location_country = Taiwan

| area_served =

| key_people = Chang Chung-Chung (張忠誠), (President){{cite web |last1=Cheng |first1=Ching-Tse |title=Taiwan military research institute announces new president |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3917222 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=16 April 2020 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=19 April 2020}}

| products = Weapons systems and subsystems

| owner = Taiwanese Government

| num_employees = ~10,000{{cite web |last1=LUNDQUIST |first1=EDWARD |title=Neighborhood Problems in the Taiwan Strait |url=https://indsr.org.tw/en/News_detail/122/Neighborhood-Problems-in-the-Taiwan-Strait |website=indsr.org.tw |publisher=INDSR |access-date=5 December 2019 |archive-date=5 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205195549/https://indsr.org.tw/en/News_detail/122/Neighborhood-Problems-in-the-Taiwan-Strait |url-status=dead }}

| num_employees_year = 2019

| revenue = >1.7 billion USD{{cite web |last1=Cheng |first1=Jiawen |title=Missiles start ... Chinese Academy of Sciences's turnover reached 50 billion yuan last year |url=https://udn.com/news/story/10930/3739703 |website=udn.com |publisher=United Daily News |access-date=19 January 2020}}

| revenue_year = 2019

| parent =

| website = [http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng www.ncsist.org.tw]

}}

File:Tien Kung Ⅱ Missile Launcher Display at Hukou Camp Ground 20140329b.jpg

File:Hsiung Feng II and Hsiung Feng III Anti-Ship Missile Launchers aboard on Central Upper Deck of ROCN Chang Chien (PFG2-1109) 20170309.jpg

National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST; {{zh|c=國家中山科學研究院|p=Guójiā Zhōngshān Kēxué Yánjiùyuàn}}) is a Taiwanese state owned corporation, formerly part of the Ministry of National Defense's Armaments Bureau, which is active in the development, manufacturing, support, and sustainment of various weapons systems and dual use technologies.

NCSIST was established by the Taiwanese government to serve as a military R&D and systems integration center. In 2014 it became an administrative corporation owned by the Government of Taiwan. NCSIST is involved in product development, manufacturing, delivery, total life cycle sustainment and maintenance.{{cite web |last1=Lundquist |first1=Edward W. |title=nterview with Adm. Richard Chen, Republic of China Navy (Ret.) |url=https://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/interview-with-adm-richard-chen-republic-of-china-navy-ret/ |website=Defense Media Network |access-date=2 August 2019}} NCSIST fulfills a function comparable to the American Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) but they also assume mixed roles in competing for and awarding research and development, integration and manufacturing contracts. Along with the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation, NCSIST it is considered to be one of the two Taiwanese prime defense contractors.{{cite web |last1=Du |first1=Eric |title=VIEWPOINT: Business Opportunities for U.S. Defense Firms Abound in Taiwan |url=https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2019/11/6/viewpoint-business-opportunities-for-us-defense-firms-abound-in-taiwan |website=www.nationaldefensemagazine.org}} It is one of the 100 largest defense companies in the world.

History

=Early history=

File:9M14 Malyutka cutaway.jpg

File:USS Robert H. McCard (DD-822) underway in 1952.jpg

Prior to the establishment of NCSIST, Taiwan had a poorly organized national defense industrial program, but the nation was faced with an increasing military threat from the People's Republic of China and a drawdown in international support and exclusion from international forums. The Republic of China would need to build its own set of hardware, instruments, laboratories, and test sites if it was to secure its independence and security.{{cite web |title=NCSIST: Always adapting to an ever-changing world |url=https://www.gmipost.com/special-feature/44/taiwan-2017/defense-and-security/365047/ncsist-always-adapting-to-an-ever-changing-world.html |website=GMI Post |access-date=2 August 2019}} Preparation for the NCSIST began in 1965, ground was broken on the Shinshin Campus in 1966, and the institute was formally inaugurated in 1969. Early work includes various missile and radar systems, as well as systems integration for ROC military aircraft and ships. The NCSIST was also, and remains, active in military construction.{{cite web |title=History |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/aboutus/History.aspx#Map4 |website=NCSIST}} After the United States switched diplomatic recognition from the Republic of China to the People's Republic of China the Institute became even more important as Taiwanese authorities felt they could no longer view the United States as a reliable defense partner.

In the 1970s, the Institute replicated and produced the 9M14 Malyutka wire-guided anti-tank guided missile as the Kun Wu.{{cite web |title=Malyutka |url=http://www.military-today.com/missiles/malyutka.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160626171359/http://www.military-today.com/missiles/malyutka.htm |url-status=usurped |archive-date=June 26, 2016 |website=Military Today |access-date=28 August 2019}} The ROC had obtained the 9M14 Malyutkas from South Vietnam. Due to the dated design and low priority placed on anti-tank weapons by the armed forces it was not widely adopted.{{cite web |title=Taiwan's Modest Defense Industries Program |url=https://www.cia.gov/library/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP04T00447R000100590001-9.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170123214031/https://www.cia.gov/library/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP04T00447R000100590001-9.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 23, 2017 |website=Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=28 August 2019}} By the mid-1970s the Institute employed about 2,000 professionals.

In the late 1970s the Institute embarked on a project to create a short-range ballistic missile prototype known as the Ching Feng. The project was intended as a pilot project to build the necessary skills needed for a long range missile program. The Ching Feng was a single stage missile which could carry a 450 kg warhead up to 110 km. The type was displayed publicly in 1981 but production was cancelled in 1982 because of significant problems with the solid rocket motor and the guidance system. Overall the type resembled the American MGM-52 Lance. The follow on missile to, to be named Sky Horse, was also abandoned in 1981 under US pressure although interest in the type was revived in the 1990s after the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis.{{cite book|author=Dinshaw Mistry|title=Containing Missile Proliferation: Strategic Technology, Security Regimes, and International Cooperation in Arms Control|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d9gTCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA97|date=20 June 2013|publisher=University of Washington Press|isbn=978-0-295-80252-7|page=97}}

In the 1980s the Institute worked with Honeywell to design a distributed open architecture combat system to replace the obsolete MK 37 Gun Fire Control System aboard Taiwan's Gearing-class destroyers. This system, called the Modular Combat System (MCS), was the first distributed open architecture combat system in the world and featured easily upgradable COTS components. The system had challenges but did the job and was affordable with the architecture, computer, and software all being developed in Taiwan.

In the 1990s Taiwan was faced with tightening restrictions on arms imports from the international community as well as instability caused by the transition from an authoritarian to a democratic system. The Institute responded to these challenges by widening the scope of its R&D programs and implementing a system of vertical integration. In the late 1990s NCSIST developed a space launch platform based on their ballistic missile technology but this program was put on hold under a combination of US pressure and a promise to subsidize Taiwanese satellite launches using commercial American companies such as SpaceX.

In 2011 NCSIST awarded MiTAC a NT$70 million (US$2.22 million) contract to build one prototype "Radar Vehicle for Field Operation and Air Defense." In 2015 police in Taoyuan took into custody three workers and one manager from MiTAC on charges of forgery of data and fabrication of test results. The tender required the vehicle to be able to advance at 8 km/h up a 40 degree incline, the vehicle MiTAC delivered could only advance at 6 km/h. In addition three NCSIST staff were detained on suspicion of colluding with the MiTAC employees to fabricate the test results, these staff then presented the fabricated results to their superiors for approval. The Taoyuan District Prosecutors' Office began investigating after receiving a tip.{{cite web |last1=Pan |first1=Jason |title=Four detained in military radar scandal |url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2015/03/06/2003612896 |website=Taipei Times |date=6 March 2015 |access-date=8 August 2019}}

=Modern history=

File:Mk 13 missile launcher on Moelders (D186) in 2013.JPG

File:Hsiung Feng III Anti-Ship Missile Display in Chengkungling 20111009a.jpg

File:「光榮之星」海上測試載台.jpg

In 2014 NCSIST was made an administrative corporation by the government, ending its period of secrecy and opening up the opportunity to partner with foreign corporations and export equipment internationally.{{cite web |last1=Pocock |first1=Chris |title=Taiwan's Good Technical Offer Is Affected By Politics |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-02-13/taiwans-good-technical-offer-affected-politics |website=AIN Online |access-date=7 June 2019}} The new corporate Board of Directors had their first meeting on April 18, 2014. The transition removed a number of restrictions for employees who were now no longer members of the military.{{cite web |last1=Tu |first1=Aaron |last2=Chung |first2=Jake |title=Amendments aim to restrict institute staff travel: source |url=https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/04/05/2003734041 |website=www.taipeitimes.com |date=5 April 2020 |publisher=Taipei Times |access-date=12 April 2020}}

Due to the end of the US Navy's support of the SM-1 missile system NCSIST has taken over support for the system including production of replacement rocket motors. The same approach was taken for the SM-1's Mark 13 missile launcher.

In 2016 NCSIST was awarded a $16.7m contract to carry out a life extension program for the Republic of China Air Force's stocks of MICA and Magic 2 air-to-air missiles. These two missiles arm the ROCAF's Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft.{{cite web |last1=Yeo |first1=Mike |title=Taiwan fighter jets get new electronic warfare capabilities in latest upgrade |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2017/12/21/taiwan-fighter-jets-get-new-electronic-warfare-capabilities-in-latest-upgrade/ |website=Defense News |date=21 December 2017 |access-date=30 August 2019}}

In 2017 NCSIST announced the commencement of "Project Vega" (織女星計畫) with the goal of producing an advanced domestic fighter as a successor to the F-CK-1. Development was to be split into two parts, the overall design and the engine production, with production to start in 2027. The engine has been dubbed F125XX and is expected to generate 16,400 lbf (73 kN). In 2021 NCSIST stated that work on both parts of the project had progressed ahead of schedule and would be completed by 2024.{{cite web |last1=Everington |first1=Keoni |title=Taiwan's development of its next-generation fighter ahead of schedule |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4177818 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=15 April 2021 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=15 April 2021}}

In 2017 NCIST exhibited again at International Defence Exhibition in Abu Dhabi after a twelve-year absence. They exhibited 39 items.{{cite web |title=Packing a punch [IDEX17D3] |url=https://www.janes.com/article/67979/packing-a-punch-idex17d3 |website=Janes |access-date=30 August 2019}}

In the mid-2010s NCSIST partnered with AIDC and the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) to create an advanced jet trainer based on the F-CK-1. AIDC is the prime contractor on the project with NCSIST taking a supporting role. Originally designated the XT-5 Blue Magpie but ruled out as the T-5 Brave Eagle the aircraft is based on the two-seat version of the F-CK-1 but with non-afterburning engines, greater fuel capacity, more stable wing profile, and the removal of the internal gun. The first of four prototypes, designated A1, was rolled out in September 2019.{{cite web |last1=Choo |first1=Roy |title=PICTURE: Taiwan unveils "Brave Eagle" AJT |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/picture-taiwan-unveils-brave-eagle-ajt-461064/ |website=Flight Global |access-date=7 October 2019}} As of end of 2023 31 Brave Eagle ({{zh|s=勇鹰|labels=no}}) planes have been developed or evaluated.{{cite web |author=游振昇 |title=漢翔達成國機國造今年17架目標 董事長今率飛4架勇鷹交台東 |url=https://udn.com/news/story/10930/7634761?from=udn_ch2cate6638sub10930_pulldownmenu_v2 |website=udn |access-date=13 January 2024}} Total order is 66 planes.{{cite web |last1=Lake |first1=Jon |title=Taiwan Unveils New Advanced Trainer |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-09-26/taiwan-unveils-new-advanced-trainer |website=AIN Online |access-date=8 October 2019}}

NCSIST is participating in the development of the first domestic Taiwanese AUV.{{cite web |last1=Chen Chih-chong and |first1=Kuan-lin Liu |title=Taiwan plans to launch its first indigenous AUV within 5 years |url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/ast/201709010012.aspx |website=Focus Taiwan |date=September 2017 |access-date=14 May 2019}} In 2019 NCSIST launched an 80-ton 28m long high speed catamaran research and test vessel named the Glorious Star (光榮之星). Built in Lungteh Shipbuilding's Yilan County shipyard the purpose of the vessel is to shorten the research and development process for naval weapon systems.{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwan launches military test ship |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3659564 |website=Taiwan News |date=16 March 2019 |access-date=21 April 2019}}

In 2019 Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen ordered the NCSIST to accelerate mass production of the TK-3 and HF-3 in response to increasing Chinese military power and bellicosity. In addition to stepping up missile production the President also ordered NCSIST leadership to focus building up their talent pool and increase partnerships with academia, industry and government at home and abroad.{{cite web |last1=Wen Kuei-hsiang and |first1=FLor Wang |title=Taiwan president urges faster mass production of missiles |url=http://m.focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201901250020.aspx |website=Focus Taiwan |access-date=18 May 2019}} Mass production of the long-range Yun Feng supersonic cruise missile began in 2019.{{cite web |last1=Axe |first1=David |title=BOOM: Why China Should Take Taiwan's New Cruise Missile Seriously |url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/boom-why-china-taiwans-cruise-063000609.html |website=Yahoo News |access-date=8 October 2019}}

In 2019 NCSIST opened Taiwan's first national unmanned aerial vehicle test site in Miaoli County. The test site is managed in partnership by NCSIST, the Miaoli County government, and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (Taiwan). The site features a 20m runway and is rated for testing UAVs up to 150 kg in weight.{{cite web |last1=DeAeth |first1=Duncan |title=Taiwan opens first national drone testing site |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3775087 |website=Taiwan News |date=12 September 2019 |access-date=7 October 2019}} They also entered into an agreement with Asustek Computer Inc to collaborate on cloud-based storage, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things technology.{{cite web |title=Taiwan Business Quick Take |url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2019/09/13/2003722168 |website=Taipei Times |date=13 September 2019 |access-date=8 October 2019}}

In November 2019 NCSIST tested a new short range anti-ship missile from the Glorious Star which while weighting significantly less than the Hsiung Feng II is said to have the same range.{{cite web |last1=Lao |first1=George |title=Taiwan tests new anti-ship missile |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3825744 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=27 November 2019 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=6 December 2019}}

In March 2020 NCSIST conducted live fire daytime and nighttime artillery and UAV detection tests which were observed by a People's Liberation Army Navy Hsiang Yang Hung-class survey vessel.{{cite web |last1=Chen |first1=Kelvin |title=Taiwan Air Force and NCSIST conduct live fire exercises |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3913944 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=10 April 2020 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=12 April 2020}}

In April 2020 Chang Chung-Cheng (張忠誠) replaced Gao Chung-Hsing (杲中興) as the president of NCSIST. Gao had courted controversy by deliberately misinterpreting The Classified National Security Information Protection Act. Chang Chung-Cheng is a retired major general who served in the Combined Logistics Command as well as the Armaments Bureau.

In July 2020 NCSIST was awarded a NT$4.8 billion (US$163 million) contract to produce 516 sets of secure high frequency radios for the Taiwanese military. The military side of the contract will be handled by the Navy with a deadline for delivery in late 2023.{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwan military budgets NT$4.8 billion for high-frequency communication system |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3969329 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=18 July 2020 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=18 July 2020}}

In 2021 the Taiwanese army ordered 50 drone helicopters from NCSIST for delivery by the first quarter 2022.{{cite web |last1=Yu |first1=Matt |last2=Lim |first2=Emerson |title=Taiwan Army tests helicopter drone in airport defense drill |url=https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202101190026 |website=focustaiwan.tw |date=19 January 2021 |publisher=Focus Taiwan |access-date=11 February 2021}}

In 2021 NCSIST deputy director Leng Chin-hsu told the Taiwanese Parliament that NCSIST had three previously undisclosed long range missiles in development. Defense minister Chiu Kuo-cheng added that work by NCSIST on such weapons had never stopped and remained a priority.{{cite web |title=Taiwan says it has begun mass producing long-range missiles |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/3/25/taiwan-begins-mass-producing-long-range-missiles |website=www.aljazeera.com |agency=Reuters |access-date=25 March 2021}}

In May 2021 the Taiwanese navy ordered a new series of shore based medium-to-long range maritime surveillance radars from NCSIST.{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwan Navy orders new radar system from domestic manufacturer |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4202648 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=13 May 2021 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=15 May 2021}}

In August 2021 it was announced that an extended range version of the TC-2 had been ordered by the Air Force with 250-300 ordered from NCSIST at a unit cost of NT$30 million (US$1.07 million).{{cite web |last1=Yu |first1=Matt |last2=Yeh |first2=Joseph |title=Taiwan to soon mass produce extended-range air-to-air missiles: source |url=https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202108040022 |website=focustaiwan.tw |date=4 August 2021 |publisher=Focus Taiwan |access-date=4 August 2021}}

In September 2021 a delegation of Taiwanese legislators paid a visit to NCSIST after approving a NT$240 billion (US$8.63 billion) special budget for domestic weapons procurement.{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwanese legislators visit domestic missile maker |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4300630 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=29 September 2021 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=20 October 2021}}

In 2022 SIPRI placed NCSIST on the list of the 100 largest arms manufactures in the world, ranking 60th with a 2022 operating income of two billion USD and a projected 2023 operating income of four billion USD.{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwan missile producer joins global top-100 arms makers |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4742118 |website=taiwannews.com.tw |date=6 December 2022 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=6 December 2022}}

= WMDs =

{{see also|Taiwan and weapons of mass destruction}}

The institute developed nuclear weapons during the Cold War. In 1967, a nuclear weapons program began under the auspices of the Institute of Nuclear Energy Research (INER) of CSIST. After the International Atomic Energy Agency found evidence of the ROC's efforts to produce weapons-grade plutonium, Taipei agreed in September 1976 under U.S. pressure to dismantle its nuclear weapons program. Though the nuclear reactor was soon shut down and the plutonium mostly returned to the U.S., a secret program was revealed when Colonel Chang Hsien-yi, deputy director of nuclear research at INER, defected to the U.S. in December 1987 and produced a cache of incriminating documents. At present there is no claim that any nuclear weapons program is being pursued.{{Cite web|url=http://nationalinterest.org/blog/chinas-greatest-nightmare-taiwan-armed-nuclear-weapons-19661|title=China's Greatest Nightmare: Taiwan Armed with Nuclear Weapons|last=Mizokami|first=Kyle|website=The National Interest|date=4 March 2017|language=en|access-date=2017-03-12}}

Developed weapons systems

=Aircraft=

  • AIDC F-CK-1 Ching-kuo: Developed by division later spun off as AIDC and was a contractor also.[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/taiwan/aidc.htm Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC).] Retrieved on May 11, 2008. Worked with AIDC to provide upgrades for the IDF.[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/taiwan-seeking-a-better-fck-with-possible-longerterm-aspirations-02492/ Taiwan Seeking a Better F-CK, With Possible Longer-Term Aspirations.] Retrieved on May 11, 2008.
  • AIDC AT-3 Tz-chiang Advanced Trainer{{Cite web|url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=130&catalog=9|title=AT-3 Tz-chiang Advanced Trainer|website=NCSIST|access-date=2017-03-16}}
  • AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle jet trainer/lead-in trainer developed in partnership with AIDC and Republic of China Air Force. Based on F-CK-1 B/D.
  • NCSIST Albatross Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System and the improved Albatross II.
  • NCSIST Teng Yun (Cloud Rider) Unmanned Aircraft System: MALE analogous to the US MQ-9.{{cite web |last1=Axe |first1=David |title=Coming Soon: Killer Drones from Taiwan (That China Will Hate)? |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/coming-soon-killer-drones-taiwan-china-will-hate-59967 |website=The National Interest |date=29 May 2019 |access-date=18 July 2019}}{{cite web |last1=Strong |first1=Matthew |title=Taiwan tests largest domestic drone above Taitung |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3404886 |website=Taiwan News |date=13 April 2018 |access-date=18 July 2019}}{{cite web |title=Taiwan to form fleet of armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to patrol its coastline |url=https://www.militaryaerospace.com/home/article/16707247/taiwan-to-form-fleet-of-armed-unmanned-aerial-vehicles-uavs-to-patrol-its-coastline |website=Military & Aerospace Electronics |date=October 2018 |access-date=18 July 2019}} Unveiled in 2015.{{cite web |last1=Cole |first1=J. Michael |title=Taiwan Unveils New Long-Endurance Drone, New Weapons at Defense Trade Show |url=https://thediplomat.com/2015/08/taiwan-unveils-new-long-endurance-drone-new-weapons-at-defense-trade-show/ |website=The Diplomat |access-date=18 July 2019}}
  • NCSIST Cardinal, family of small UAVs. Includes Cardinal I, Cardinal II, Fire Cardinal,{{Cite web|url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=19&catalog=9|title=Cardinal Mini Unmanned Aircraft Systems|website=NCSIST|access-date=2017-03-16}} and Cardinal III.{{cite web |last1=DOMINGUEZ |first1=GABRIEL |title=Taking page from Ukraine, Taiwan shows off new killer drones |url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/03/14/asia-pacific/taiwan-drones-ukraine-china/ |website=japantimes.co.jp/ |date=14 March 2023 |publisher=Japan Times |access-date=14 March 2023}}
  • NCSIST Chien Hsiang: First exhibited in 2017, visually similar to IAI Harpy.{{cite web |last1=Cole |first1=J. Michael |title=How Taiwan Can Defend Its Coastline Against China |url=https://nationalinterest.org/feature/how-taiwan-can-defend-its-coastline-against-china-64861 |website=National Interest |date=30 June 2019 |access-date=13 July 2019}} In 2019 the Taiwan Air Force's Air Defense and Missile Command announced a five-year, NT$80b (US$2.54b) project to build up a full force of anti-radiation UAVs.{{cite web |last1=Liao |first1=George |title=Taiwan military to spend NT$80 billion on anti-radiation drone fleet |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3727728 |website=Taiwan News |date=19 June 2019 |access-date=22 June 2019}} The anti-radiation drone has a reported loiter time of 100 hours and a top speed of 185 km/h.{{cite web |last1=Cole |first1=J. Michael |title=Taiwanese Military Unveils New Equipment at Defense Trade Show |url=https://sentinel.tw/taiwan-tadte-2017-new/ |website=Taiwan Sentinel |access-date=2 August 2019}} Three variants were unveiled in 2023.
  • NCSIST Spark: target drone.{{cite web |title=Spark Target Drone

|url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=276&catalog=41 |website=www.ncsist.org.tw/ |publisher=NCSIST |access-date=17 January 2020}}

  • NCSIST Flamingo II: target drone.
  • NCSIST Capricorn, single rotor helicopter drone{{cite web |last1=HELFRICH |first1=EMMA |last2=ROGOWAY |first2=TYLER |title=Taiwan Shows Off Its Radar-Killing Kamikaze Drones |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/taiwan-shows-off-its-radar-killing-kamikaze-drones |website=thedrive.com |date=16 November 2022 |publisher=The Drive |access-date=18 November 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Chen |first1=Kelvin |title=Taiwan's NCSIST unveils new single-rotor drone |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4718974 |website=taiwannews.com.tw |date=15 November 2022 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=18 November 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Chung |first1=Lawrence |title=Taiwan unveils close-range helicopter-like drone to keep an eye on threats from mainland China |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3199790/taiwan-unveils-close-range-rotary-wing-drone-keep-eye-threats-mainland-china-and-boost-combat |website=scmp.com |date=16 November 2022 |publisher=South China Morning Post |access-date=18 November 2022}}
  • Loitering Munition UAV, Switchblade 300 sized loitering munition unveiled in 2023{{cite web |last1=Cheung |first1=Eric |title=Taiwan unveils its new combat and surveillance drones as China threat grows |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/14/asia/taiwan-china-military-drones-unveiled-hnk-intl/index.html |website=cnn.com |date=14 March 2023 |publisher=CNN |access-date=14 March 2023}}

IDF-Wan Chien.jpg|IDF with Wan Chien

NCSIST Cardinal UAV 20150815a.jpg|NCSIST Cardinal UAV

NCSIST ASRD MALE UAV Display at Hsinchu Air Force Base 20151121a.jpg|NCSIST Teng Yun on Display at Hsinchu Air Force Base

Launcher of Chien hsiang loitering munition.jpg|NCSIST Chien Hsiang loitering munition and launcher

UAV 9717 Display at No.11 Pier Left Rear View 20130504.jpg|NCSIST Albatross 9717 on display at No.11 Pier

NCSIST Spark Target Drone Display at MND Hall 20150815.jpg|NCSIST Spark Target Drone Display at MND Hall

File:FlamingoII.JPG|Flamingo II

File:ROCAFA AT-3s Flypasts over Gangshan Air Force Base 20170812b.jpg|ROCAFA AT-3s

File:XA-3 in Chengkungling 20121006a.jpg|XA-3

File:2020. 06.22 總統出席「空軍新式高教機首飛展示」 (50032164076).jpg|T-5 Brave Eagle

=Missile systems=

  • Hsiung Feng I (HF-1): Surface launched subsonic Anti-ship missile.[http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/world/taiwan/csist.htm Chungshan Institute of Science and Technology.] Retrieved on May 11, 2008.
  • Hsiung Feng II (HF-2): surface launched subsonic anti-ship missile with limited air-to-ground missile capabilities.
  • Hsiung Feng IIE (HF-2E): surface launched long range cruise missile system
  • Hsiung Feng III (HF-3): surface launched supersonic anti-ship missile.{{Cite web|url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=10&catalog=30|title=HF III Supersonic Anti-Ship Missile|website=NCSIST|access-date=2017-03-13}}
  • Sky Bow (TK): Air defense weapon system, consists of TK-1, TK-2, and TK-3 systems.{{cite web |title=Tien-Kung (Sky Bow) |url=https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/tien-kung-sky-bow/ |website=Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance |access-date=23 July 2019}}
  • Sky Sword I (TC-1): IR guided short range air-to-air missile.
  • Antelope air defence system: road mobile SHORAD system built around the TC-1.{{cite web |title=The Antelope |url=http://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/the-antelope/ |website=Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance |access-date=21 April 2019}}
  • Sea Oryx: sea based point defense system built around the TC-1.{{cite web |title=Sea Oryx |url=http://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/sea-oryx/ |website=Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance |access-date=21 April 2019}}
  • Sky Sword II (TC-2): radar guided medium range air-to-air missile.{{cite web |title=Tien Chien-2N (TC-2N) |url=https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/tien-chien-2n-tc-2n/ |website=Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance |access-date=23 July 2019}}
  • Sky Horse: short range ballistic missile system developed in the 1970s.
  • Sky Spear: short range ballistic missile system derived from the TK-2.
  • Yun Feng: supersonic surface-to-surface cruise missile.{{Cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/world/breaking-news/taiwan-to-aim-missiles-at-china/news-story/0258f825dc89ab91d97fb4e393425ad5|title=Taiwan to aim missiles at China|work=NewsComAu|access-date=2017-03-13|language=en}}
  • Wan Chien: Air-ground cruise missile.{{Cite news|url=https://thediplomat.com/2014/01/taiwan-unveils-wan-chien-air-to-ground-cruise-missile/|title=Taiwan Unveils 'Wan Chien' Air-To-Ground Cruise Missile|last=Cole|first=J. Michael|work=The Diplomat|access-date=2017-03-16|language=en-US}}

Hsiung Feng I Anti-Ship Missile Display in Chengkungling 20111009.jpg|Hsiung Feng I Anti-ship Missile

Hsiung Feng II Anti-Ship Missile Display in Chengkungling 20111009a.jpg|Hsiung Feng II Anti-Ship Missile

ROCN_Hsiung_Feng_II_%26_Hsiung_Feng_III_Anti-Ship_Missile_Launchers_Truck_Display_at_Zuoying_Naval_Base_Ground_20151024.jpg|Truck-mounted Hsiung Feng II/Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missile launchers

Tien Kung III Missile Launcher Trailer Display at Military Academy Ground 20140531.jpg|Tien Kung III (TK-3) Missile Launcher Trailer

TADTE 2015 Preview, Sea Oryx Missile Launcher 20150811b.jpg|Sea Oryx Missile Launcher

Antelope Air Defense System in CCK Air Force Base 20111112.jpg|Antelope Air Defense System at CCK Air Force Base

TC-2 Sky Sword II.jpg|TC-2 (Sky Sword II)

File:陸劍二野戰防空飛彈系統.jpg|Ground based TC-2 battery

File:TC-2N missile fired from ROCS Ta Chiang.png|TC-2N missile fired from ROCS Ta Chiang

=Other weapon systems=

  • Thunderbolt-2000 (LT-2000): locally developed MLRS.{{Cite web|url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=12&catalog=8|title=Ray-Ting 2000 Artillery Multiple Launch Rocket System|website=NCSIST|access-date=2017-03-13}}
  • Kung Feng 6 (KF 6): locally developed MLRS.
  • Kestrel: Disposable rocket launcher firing HEAT and HESH projectiles. Development began in 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/tadte_2013_show_daily_news_coverage_report/kestrel_latest_generation_of_rocket_launcher_weapon_presented_by_chung-shan_institute_tadte_1908136.html|title=Kestrel latest generation of rocket launcher weapon presented by Chung-Shan Institute TADTE 1908136|date=19 August 2013|work=armyrecognition.com}} The Kestrel entered service with the ROCMC in 2015.{{cite web |title=Kestrel Rocket |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_id=284&catalog=41 |website=NCSIST |access-date=1 July 2019}} The Kestrel platform is being used as a starting point for the development of an anti-tank guided missile system.{{cite web|author2=Jake Chung|author1=Lo Tien-pin|title=US, Taiwan sign missile deal: source|url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2018/03/31/2003690383|date=Mar 31, 2018|website=Taipei Times|access-date=1 July 2019}}
  • XTR-101/102: Automatic close-defense 20mm weapon mounts. Prototypes demonstrated in September 2013.{{cite web|title=New short-range automated defense weapon systems XTR-101 and XTR-102 at TADTE 2013 1608133|date=15 August 2013|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/tadte_2013_show_daily_news_coverage_report/new_short-range_automated_defense_weapon_systems_xtr-101_and_xtr-102_at_tadte_2013_1608133.html|website=armyrecognition.com}} Exhibited for the first time in 2015.{{cite web |last1=Minnick |first1=Wendell |title=Taiwan Defense Show Exhibits New Weapons |url=https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2015/08/12/taiwan-defense-show-exhibits-new-weapons/ |website=Defense News |date=12 August 2015 |access-date=6 May 2019}}
  • CS/MPQ-90 Bee Eye: short-medium range multifunction AESA radar to support SHORAD batteries. Planned to have a naval role as well.{{cite web |last1=Yeo |first1=Mike |title=Taiwan's Navy seeks first indigenous landing platform dock |url=https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2017/04/19/taiwan-s-navy-seeks-first-indigenous-landing-platform-dock/ |website=Defense News |date=19 April 2017 |access-date=2 August 2019}}
  • Bistatic radar system{{cite web|title=New local-made Bistatic Radar - Passive Receiver System of Taiwanese army for coast surveillance 250|date=25 August 2013|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/tadte_2013_show_daily_news_coverage_report/new_local-made_bistatic_radar_-_passive_receiver_system_of_taiwanese_army_for_coast_surveillance_250.html |website=armyrecognition.com |access-date=17 May 2019}} Two systems entered service in 2018 with mass production to begin in 2020 if they behave favorably in the field.{{cite web |last1=Everington |first1=Keoni |title=Taiwan field testing new mobile passive radar systems to hunt Chinese stealth fighter jets |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3430896 |website=Taiwan News |date=15 May 2018 |access-date=2 August 2019}}{{cite web |title=Mobile Passive Radar Systems |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=102&catalog=31 |website=NCSIST |access-date=2 August 2019}} In 2021 a more advanced version was spotted being deployed to Penghu.{{cite web |last1=Su-wei |first1=Wu |last2=Chin |first2=Jonathan |title=No mass reprimands due to top-secret leak: MND |url=https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2021/04/09/2003755357 |website=www.taipeitimes.com |date=9 April 2021 |publisher=Taipei Times |access-date=16 April 2021}}
  • AV2 Long-range Chaff Rocket: Chaff rocket for ship self defense.{{cite web |title=AV2 Long-range Chaff Rocket |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=92&catalog=16 |website=NCSIST |access-date=16 July 2019}}
  • 2.75in rocket: 2.75 inch aerial rocket for use aboard AH-64, OH-58D, F-5E/F, F-16, P-3 Orion, etc. Two variants, Mk4 and Mk66.{{cite web |title=2.75 Inch Rocket |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=98&catalog=16 |website=NCSIST |access-date=16 July 2019}}
  • CAPTOR mine: Designated No. 1 Wan Xiang CAPTOR Mine. CAPTOR mines contain a torpedo and a targeting system.{{cite web |title=Mine |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/ENG/csistdup/products/product.aspx?product_Id=255&catalog=38 |website=NCSIST |access-date=16 July 2019}}{{cite web |last1=THOMPSON |first1=DREW |title=HOPE ON THE HORIZON: TAIWAN'S RADICAL NEW DEFENSE CONCEPT |url=https://warontherocks.com/2018/10/hope-on-the-horizon-taiwans-radical-new-defense-concept/ |website=War on the Rocks |date=2 October 2018 |access-date=16 July 2019}}
  • Bottom mine: Designated No. 2 Wan Xiang Bottom Mine. A remote controlled or passive mine designed to sit on the bottom.{{cite web |last1=TREVITHICK |first1=JOSEPH |title=Taiwan's Next Batch Of Stealthy Catamarans Will Have Serious Mine-Laying Capabilities |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/28201/taiwans-next-batch-of-stealthy-catarmans-will-have-serious-mine-laying-capabilities |website=The Drive |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=16 July 2019}} Designated WSM-II, smart mine for use in deep water.{{cite web |last1=Chang |first1=Eric |title=Taiwan Navy conducts mine drills amidst increasing Chinese military activity |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3953409 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=24 June 2020 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=6 July 2020}}
  • Moored mine: A remote or automatic mine designed to be moored to the bottom and float in the current.
  • Soft kill drone UAV defense system{{cite web |last1=Yu |first1=Matt |last2=Yeh |first2=Joseph |title=Taiwan to install UAV defense systems at 45 military bases nationwide |url=https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202205190014 |website=focustaiwan.tw |date=19 May 2022 |publisher=Focus Taiwan |access-date=19 May 2022}}

ROCA Point Defense Array Radar System Truck Display at Chengkungling Ground 20150606c.1.jpg|Short range AESA radar system (CS/MPQ-90 Bee Eye)

Bistatic Radar Passive Receiver System Display at Military Academy Ground 20140531a.jpg|Bistatic Radar Passive Receiver System Display at Military Academy Ground

No.1 Wan Xiang CAPTOR Mine Display at ROCN Ho Zhong (LCU-484) 20151024.jpg|No.1 Wan Xiang CAPTOR Mine

No.2 Wan Xiang Bottom Mine Display at ROCN Ho Zhong (LCU-484) 20151024a.jpg|No.2 Wan Xiang Bottom Mine

MK.6 Mine Display at Chengkungling 20121006.jpg|MK.6 Mine

台灣軍方展示自行研發的高科技武器 02.jpg|Coastal defense rocket launcher

File:Kurstal anti tank rocket.JPG|Kestrel anti tank rocket

Thunderbolt 2000 MLRS Display at CKS Memorial Hall Entrance 20140607.jpg|Thunderbolt-2000 MLRS Display at CKS Memorial Hall

Kung Feng VI MLRS at Chengkungling Right View 20131012.jpg|Kung Feng VI multiple launch rocket system

File:Kung Feng IV MLRS Trailer Display at Chengkungling 20131012a.jpg|Kung Feng IV multiple launch rocket system

Civilian and non-weapon systems

  • Sensor system for the Resource Prospector lunar rover mission. Cancelled in 2018. The instruments will be flown aboard the Commercial Lunar Payload Services missions in the 2020s.{{cite web |last1=Stuckey |first1=Alex |title=NASA spent $100 million on much-anticipated lunar rover before scrapping it in April |url=https://www.chron.com/news/nation-world/space/article/NASA-spent-100-million-on-much-anticipated-lunar-12968667.php |website=Chron |date=5 June 2018 |access-date=17 June 2019}}
  • SG100 Cloud Computer for the International Space Station designed and manufactured in collaboration with Academia Sinica and National Central University under contract for NASA.{{cite web |last1=Jonathan Chin |first1=Lo Tien-pin and |title=Taiwan-designed computer now part of an ISS mission |url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2017/06/12/2003672395 |website=Taipei Times |date=12 June 2017 |access-date=17 June 2019}} It was launched to the space station in 2017.{{cite web |last1=An |first1=David |title=US-Taiwan Space Cooperation: Formosat, AMS, and the ISS computer |url=http://globaltaiwan.org/2019/06/vol-4-issue-11/ |website=Global Taiwan Institute |date=5 June 2019 |access-date=17 June 2019}}
  • High speed rail simulator developed with Taiwan High Speed Rail. Based on aircraft simulator technology the system can simulate natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.{{cite web |last1=Tzu-ti |first1=Huang |title=Taiwan hails home-built locomotive simulator as milestone for rail industry |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3687813 |website=Taiwan News |date=25 April 2019 |access-date=28 May 2019}}
  • Civilian air traffic control radar: NCSIST has partnered with British firm Easat Radar Systems to pursue dual use projects using NCSIST's proprietary radar technology.{{cite web |title=Taiwan's top defense R&D outfit to work with UK radar tech company |url=https://taiwantoday.tw/news.php?unit=2,6,10,15,18&post=138316 |website=Taiwan Today |date = 20 July 2018|access-date=2 August 2019}}
  • Major components for the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT), first prototype segments delivered in 2020.{{cite web |last1=Wallace |first1=John |title=Aspheres: Industry 4.0 techniques drive fabrication of prototype off-axis ELT mirrors |url=https://www.laserfocusworld.com/optics/article/14075105/industry-40-techniques-drive-fabrication-of-prototype-offaxis-elt-mirrors |website=www.laserfocusworld.com |date=18 February 2020 |publisher=Laser Focus World |access-date=20 February 2020}}
  • The Band-1 sensor for the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA){{cite web |last1=Hui-ju |first1=Chien |last2=Chung |first2=Jake |title=Taiwan-made gear helps researchers see 'first light' |url=https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/09/17/2003764514 |website=taipeitimes.com |date=17 September 2021 |publisher=Taipei Times |access-date=17 September 2021}}
  • Powered exoskeleton, initially for military use{{cite web |last1=Sabala |first1=Joe |title=Taiwan Unveils 'Ironman' Suit to Enhance Soldier Endurance |url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2021/10/27/taiwan-suit-soldier-endurance/ |website=www.thedefensepost.com |date=27 October 2021 |publisher=The Defense Post |access-date=27 October 2021}}{{cite web |last1=Liao |first1=Leslie |title=Defense ministry showcases powered exoskeleton |url=https://en.rti.org.tw/news/view/id/2006313 |website=en.rti.org.tw |publisher=Radio Taiwan International |access-date=11 November 2021}}{{cite web |author=Staff Writer |title=Military unveils locally developed exoskeleton suit |url=https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/10/27/2003766847 |website=www.taipeitimes.com |date=27 October 2021 |publisher=Taipei Times |access-date=11 November 2021}}

File:Artist’s impression of the European Extremely Large Telescope deploying lasers for adaptive optics.jpg|Artist's impression of the European Extremely Large Telescope deploying lasers for adaptive optics

Organization

The institute is divided into six research divisions and five centers.{{cite web |title=Organization |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/aboutus/page06.html |website=NCSIST |access-date=23 July 2019}} Research divisions pursue both project oriented and basic scientific research.

=Research Divisions=

  • Aeronautical Systems
  • Missile and Rocket Systems
  • Information and Communications
  • Chemical Systems
  • Materials and Electro-Optics
  • Electronic Systems

=Centers=

  • System Development
  • System Manufacturing
  • Systems Sustainment
  • Integrated Logistical Support
  • Dual-Use Technology Development

=Locations=

NCSIST facilities are located in Taoyuan (four facilities), New Taipei City, Taichung City, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung County.{{cite web |title=Locations |url=http://www.ncsist.org.tw/eng/csistdup/aboutus/TransportationLeading.aspx |website=NCSIST |access-date=23 July 2019}}

In 2022 a locally designed propellant factory at the NCSIST's Jiupeng complex in Pingtung was completed. The facility allows for increased production of missiles and rockets.{{cite web |last1=Yu |first1=Matt |last2=Liu |first2=Kay |title=Taiwan's first locally designed, built missile fuel factory opens |url=https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202206240013 |website=focustaiwan.tw |date=24 June 2022 |publisher=Focus Taiwan |access-date=7 July 2022}}

See also

=Similar organizations=

References

{{reflist}}