US, Japan and Taiwan to share real-time intelligence collected by drones

The United States, Japan and Taiwan intend to exchange real-time intelligence information obtained from drones. The Financial Times reports this, citing four sources.

Here's What We Know

The decision to share intelligence should help the island nation prepare for a possible invasion by the Chinese army. To do so, Taiwan will receive four MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones manufactured by US company General Atomics. The cost of the deal is $600 million.

The US and Japan are already using the drones for surveillance in the region. According to sources, the US authorities will allow the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones to be integrated into the system.

China has stepped up manoeuvres around Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army military regularly simulates strikes on the island, and during the current week more than 30 aircraft have entered the air defence identification zone. Intelligence sharing with Japan and the US will ensure that Taiwan can see the full picture of the Chinese army's actions in real time.

Source: Financial Times