Taiwan Space Ambitions: Taiwan’s Space Agency (TASA) carried out its first domestically developed sounding rocket test, launching Maraho from Pingtung and verifying propulsion, flight control, and real-time communications (recovery failed due to sea conditions). Defense Tech & Policy: NCSIST disclosed technical specifications for the Chiang Kung/Tien Chien IV hypersonic interceptor tied to the T-Dome air-defense plan, as funding uncertainty continues in the legislature. Undersea Autonomy Push: Taiwan signed an MoU with U.S. startup Vatn Systems to explore AI-enabled command-and-control and deploy modular S12 undersea drones with local supply-chain and maintenance support. Cross-Strait Security Signals: A mainland research ship (Tong Ji) was spotted near Taiwan’s southwest naval base area, prompting coastguard monitoring and warnings. US-PRC Tensions in the Strait: A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon transited the Taiwan Strait in international airspace ahead of the Xi-Trump meeting; China tracked it, while the U.S. framed it as routine operations under international law. Industry Modernization: A major printing association is turning to AI-powered design and intelligent production to tackle shrinking print demand and talent shortages. AI-Driven Living Standards: Taiwan’s average household income rose 3.3% year-on-year, while economists warn AI export gains may widen income gaps. Energy Safety: Taiwan’s PM ordered checks on wind turbines older than 15 years after a turbine fire in Yunlin.