The military said the missile malfunctioned during a test aboard a warship, and there was a possibility it could fly a short distance, but no risk of the warhead exploding.
The experimental effort, which has not been disclosed, is being used to conduct mass surveillance of Palestinians in Gaza, according to military officials and others.
The island democracy urgently needs an internet backup. Mr. Musk’s total control over his Starlink service, which dominates the market, left Taiwan wary.