U.S. Senators John Curtis, Jeff Merkley, Ted Cruz, and Andy Kim introduced bipartisan legislation on Apr. 6 to expand cooperation between the United States and Taiwan in developing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) amid growing concerns about China’s influence in the global drone supply chain.
The Blue Skies for Taiwan Act aims to promote secure and resilient UAS development that would enhance American national security while supporting Taiwan’s defense capabilities. Lawmakers say this initiative comes as the People’s Republic of China increases pressure on Taiwan and maintains dominance over critical UAS components.
“Strengthening our partnership with Taiwan is critical to advancing both American security and the stability of the Indo-Pacific,” said Senator John Curtis. “Our bipartisan legislation expands cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan to build secure, resilient drone systems—cutting China out of the supply chain and reinforcing deterrence in the region.” Senator Jeff Merkley said, “Our longstanding partnership with Taiwan demands the United States use all the tools at our disposal to strengthen Taiwan’s security and counter China’s coercive tactics.” He added that “our bipartisan effort not only protects American strategic interests… but it also ensures that Taiwan is well-equipped to develop unmanned aerial systems in support of its own defense.” Senator Ted Cruz said, “This legislation will modernize the development and production of unmanned aerial system supply chains, strengthen supply chain integration, and deepen U.S.-Taiwan defense cooperation.” Senator Andy Kim emphasized vulnerabilities: “Making matters worse, the majority of commercially available UAS technology relies on components sourced from China… Supporting Taiwan’s UAS manufacturing through this legislation is how we close that gap and secure long-term stability for ourselves and our partners.”
Most commercially available drones contain components from China, creating cybersecurity risks for both countries’ defenses. The new bill seeks to identify obstacles while expanding opportunities for joint production free from Chinese-sourced parts.
Senator Curtis has served as mayor of Provo for two terms before representing Utah in Congress according to his official website. He founded the Conservative Climate Caucus while raising six children with his wife Sue; they have 17 grandchildren according to his official website. Curtis also serves on multiple committees advocating conservative environmental solutions focused on small businesses; he has passed significant laws addressing public land management and human trafficking according to his official website.
Curtis ranks among Congress’s most effective Republican members according to his official website, where he highlights founding roles such as leading climate-focused caucuses alongside legislative work.
