Taiwan-based semiconductor manufacturer TSMC is preparing to deploy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at its Arizona plant. The company’s plan to hand over operational inspection processes to drones has been confirmed, and this technological step will reportedly have a broad scope not only in production but also in security.
TSMC Prepares to Use UAVs at Arizona Plant
TSMC has already begun the process of negotiating with suppliers for the UAV systems to be used. The first phase is expected to be completed by the end of the year with the selection of shortlisted companies.
According to reports, the use of drones will not be limited to facility inspections. Security vulnerabilities encountered at large production complexes built in remote areas, traffic control, equipment tracking, and emergency management will also be addressed with drone-assisted solutions.
During the construction of the Arizona plant, TSMC faced significant operational burdens due to cultural conflicts with local labor unions and lawsuits filed regarding working conditions.
This situation has led the company to turn to technologies that will reduce manpower requirements and automate field inspections. AI-powered drone systems are gaining prominence in this context.
With the launch of the new system, many critical control points within and around the facility will be remotely monitored. Traffic flow, security gates, equipment locations, and emergency scenarios for potential natural disaster risks will be managed through drone systems. This will both reduce the burden on field personnel and increase the safety of workers working in hazardous environments.
China-based DJI was one of the companies mentioned in the drone procurement process. However, due to current telecommunications restrictions in the US, DJI is likely to face technical and legal hurdles in the project. This could force TSMC to consider new supplier alternatives.
TSMC currently produces 4nm in Arizona. The company plans to expand this facility into three separate factories by 2030. Drone-based systems are expected to play a strategic role in this expansion process, both in terms of time and cost. It is rumored that the new technology will not be limited to Arizona, and that in the long term, it will be integrated into TSMC’s other American facilities.
