Taiwan is pushing to upgrade its defense ties with Washington from buying American weapons to building them together — a step up for Taiwan's defense industry and another irritant for Beijing.

• Taiwan wants joint research and production with the US, especially in drones, anti-drone systems, and AI tools for military decisions and logistics.
• The pitch came during a visit by US House members days before Taiwan's National Day, signaling continued congressional backing.
• Taiwan is raising its defense budget and pushing homegrown weapons, arguing only real strength keeps the peace.
• China's military moves and pressure campaigns around the East China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea are the stated reason for the urgency.
• On trade, Taiwan is asking Congress to pass a deal to stop companies being taxed twice in both countries, to unlock more investment.

Outlook: Expect louder Taiwanese lobbying for co-production deals and the tax agreement, with Beijing likely to respond sharply to any deepening US-Taiwan military work.