Ukraine leverages frontline drone experience to defend Gulf nations from Iranian “Shahed” attacks.
WEB DESK: Ukraine has deployed 201 military specialists to the Gulf region to counter the growing threat posed by Iranian-made “Shahed” drones, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday in London. An additional 34 experts remain on standby for immediate deployment.
The Ukrainian contingent includes experienced electronic warfare operators and technicians who have spent years combating Russian drone strikes on the battlefield. Their expertise is being shared with Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, to safeguard critical infrastructure from low-cost, high-impact attacks.
“This is not just assistance; it is drone diplomacy,” Zelenskyy told British lawmakers, highlighting Ukraine’s transition from an aid recipient to a provider of specialized security solutions. Analysts say Kyiv is leveraging its experience to gain diplomatic influence and strengthen ties with wealthy energy-exporting nations.
Ukraine has also scaled up its domestic drone production, reportedly manufacturing 2,000 interceptors per day, with half earmarked for export. Kyiv’s drones are credited with causing 90% of Russian losses on the front lines.
The deployment follows a defense partnership signed with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, combining British industrial support with Ukrainian battlefield innovation. While NATO allies welcome the collaboration, U.S. officials remain cautious. Nevertheless, Gulf states now benefit from a battle-tested shield against modern asymmetric threats.
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