Taipei: Defense Minister Wellington Koo announced on Wednesday that the Ministry of National Defense will conduct a review to determine if the current two-hour drone operation training for reservists should be extended. This decision follows inquiries from lawmakers who expressed concerns about the adequacy of the training duration.

According to Focus Taiwan, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Chen Chun-yu raised the issue during a legislative hearing, arguing that two hours is insufficient for reservists to gain a thorough understanding of drone operations. He suggested expanding the course duration to enhance the effectiveness of the training. The drone operational training was integrated into reservist refresher programs in October 2025.

During the same hearing, DPP Legislator Wang Yi-chuan also questioned the limited training time, expressing surprise that the course offered hands-on instruction despite its brief duration. Minister Koo clarified that the course in question provides basic training for general reserve personnel. However, reservists who have previously served in drone units are expected to engage in more specialized drone-related refresher training, with the ministry focusing on improving its quality.

Koo further explained that reservist refresher programs encompass a variety of training modules, including specialty refresher courses, marksmanship training, and the execution of operational plans. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to assessing how additional time could be effectively allocated to drone-related training.

Addressing reporters prior to the legislative session, Koo underscored the ministry's objective to ensure reservists are reassigned to their original units for refresher training, especially those with expertise in operating advanced weapon systems, to maintain and review their skills. Traditionally, Taiwan's reservist training has concentrated on basic infantry tactics and marksmanship, irrespective of the reservists' previous specialized training during active service.

Highlighting the example of personnel trained to operate M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), Koo stated that these individuals will focus on refreshing their specialty skills during reservist training to ensure their capabilities are effectively employed when necessary.