Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE) 2025: Advancing ESG & Innovation in Aerospace and Defense
The 2025 TADTE, held on 15–18 October at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center and organised by the Taiwan Aerospace Industry Association (TAIA), brought together 600+ industry leaders, defense officials, and sustainability experts. This landmark edition integrated ESG principles into aerospace and defense development, highlighting how low-carbon aviation, ethical supply chains, and collaborative governance can support both sustainability and national security.
Green Aerospace Innovation
TADTE 2025 prioritised decarbonisation across the aerospace sector. TAIA unveiled the Taiwan Aerospace Carbon Neutrality Roadmap 2050, targeting 50% emissions reduction through hybrid-electric propulsion, sustainable aviation fuel partnerships, and recyclable aircraft materials. AIDC presented its electric VTOL prototype with 70% lower emissions than traditional helicopters. Workshops such as the “Sustainable Aerospace Design Lab” enabled engineers to co-develop strategies to optimise aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
Social Impact, Workforce Development & Community Engagement
The exhibition underscored the sector’s social role through initiatives supporting diversity and education. The Taiwan Aerospace Youth Talent Program showcased student innovations, including inclusive cockpit designs empowering women and young engineers. Community-focused defense applications—such as a disaster-response drone for post-typhoon rescue—demonstrated how aerospace technologies can enhance public welfare. Outreach programmes promoted understanding of sustainable aviation among students and local communities.
Governance & Ethical Practices
Governance was highlighted through the launch of the Taiwan Aerospace ESG Disclosure Framework (aligned with ISO 26000), requiring member firms to report on supply chain ethics, data security, and workforce safety by 2027. Exhibitors presented innovations such as a blockchain-based Ethical Procurement Platform ensuring conflict-free sourcing, and a Circular Defense Parts Initiative repurposing decommissioned aircraft components to support civilian aviation maintenance.
Looking Ahead
TAIA pledged to sustain ESG momentum by forming an Aerospace ESG Working Group in 2026 and hosting an annual Sustainable Aerospace Summit. TADTE 2025 demonstrated that aerospace and defense can lead in both technological innovation and responsible, sustainability-aligned development.
