WORN OUT:The military has a laser-equipped exercise site, but the equipment is showing signs of wear and have limited range, the Ministry of National Defense said

Taipei Times
Date: May 28, 2017
By: Lo Tien-pin and Jake Chung / Staff reporter, with staff writer

The Ministry of National Defense yesterday said it would invest NT$970 million (US$32.2 million) over the next three years to establish a facility to hold simulated combat scenarios that use lasers instead of live ammunition in response to protests over the environmental effects of military drills.

The ministry concluded its annual five-day Han Kuang exercise on Friday.

The facility would use laser emitters and receptors to simulate trading of fire on both sides, officials said, adding that the system has a “playback” function that would allow participating units to watch replays and review tactics.

After evaluating offers from US, Swiss and Taiwanese companies, the ministry rewarded the contract to Chungshan Institute of Science and Technology.

The institute would begin working on the project this year with the facility expected to become operational by 2019, the ministry said.    [FULL  STORY]