Taiwan is advancing plans for a new indigenous reconnaissance vehicle intended to improve battlefield awareness and mobility for its ground forces. Developed under the Iron Cavalry Project, 246 vehicles are expected to be produced from 2028 through 2033. The platform is designed to complement existing Humvees and perform reconnaissance, security and counterattack missions. Taiwan’s Armaments Bureau is coordinating the program, while local research institutions are contributing key technologies. The Industrial Technology Research Institute is developing the powertrain, transmission, steering and central tire inflation system, while the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology is responsible for the electro-optical reconnaissance equipment. The four-wheel-drive vehicle uses a 205-horsepower engine and can reach 100 km/h, with a range of around 500 km. Its telescopic sensor mast provides reconnaissance coverage out to 12 km, while a remotely operated 12.7 mm weapon station offers defensive firepower. The vehicle is being developed as Taiwan increases preparations for sustained military operations and evaluates the resilience of its defense infrastructure.
