Ministry to review drone training hours for reservists: Koo

Taipei, June 24 (CNA) Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) said Wednesday that the Ministry of National Defense will review whether to increase drone operation training for reservists in refresher programs, after lawmakers questioned whether the current two-hour course was sufficient.

Koo was responding to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Chen Chun-yu (陳俊宇), who said at a legislative hearing that two hours was hardly enough for reservists to familiarize themselves with drone operations and asked whether the course could be expanded.

The drone course was added to reservist refresher programs in October 2025.

DPP Legislator Wang Yi-chuan (王義川) also questioned the amount of drone training provided and appeared surprised to learn that the course included hands-on instruction despite its limited duration.

Koo said the course Chen and Wang referred to was basic drone training for general reserve personnel.

Reservists who previously served in drone units, meanwhile, are expected to focus on drone-related refresher training, he said, adding that the ministry aims to improve the quality of that training.

In addition to drone operation, reservist refresher programs include specialty refresher courses, marksmanship training, and training in the execution of operational plans, Koo said.

"We will assess how much additional time can be allocated to drone-related training," he said.

Before the meeting, Koo told reporters that the ministry would work to ensure reservists return to their original units for refresher training, particularly those trained to operate advanced weapon systems, so they can review and maintain their skills.

Taiwan's reservist training has traditionally focused largely on basic infantry tactics and marksmanship, regardless of the training received during active service.

Personnel trained to operate M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), for example, will focus on refreshing their specialty skills during reservist training so those capabilities can be effectively employed when needed, Koo said.