Staff writer, with CNA

The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI, 工研院) yesterday said that a US drone industry certification program has granted it Green UAS evaluation authorization.In addition, the institute signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with state-backed Aerospace Industrial Development Corp (漢翔航空), formally launching collaboration on Green UAS testing and validation.The announcement was made at the Taiwan UAS Assessor Launch Ceremony, an event in Taipei organized by ITRI.

From left, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) president Chang Pei-zen, American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International chief executive officer Michael Robbins, ITRI chairman Wu Tsung-tsong, Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Ho Chin-tsang and Industrial Development Administration Director-General Chiou Chyou-huey pose for a photograph at a ceremony in Taipei yesterday.

Green UAS is a cybersecurity and supply-chain compliance certification program for commercial and non-defense drones created by the Arlington, Virginia-based Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International.The designation makes Taiwan the first nation other than the US with a recognized evaluation body, which would help local companies obtain certification, and expand into the US and other markets, ITRI said.