The KMT on Monday submitted an alternative budget allocating up to NT$240 billion over six years through regular annual budgets, exceeding the Cabinet's NT$210 billion special budget proposal.
KMT officials said the party disagreed with the Cabinet on funding, management and integration with broader industrial policy.
The KMT version leaves procurement decisions to the Defence Ministry but requires lawmakers to be notified of any drone purchase exceeding NT$100 million.
The move reflects growing consensus across Taiwan’s political spectrum that unmanned systems will be central to future defence.
The Cabinet unveiled its special budget proposal on Friday, specifying procurement targets for various drone types.