The equation is simple: an Iranian drone costs around one thousand dollars, while a cruise missile may reach a price of one million dollars. However, Ukrainian expertise in countering Iranian drones, gained during the war with Russia, has given Ukraine a positive reputation internationally as a model for handling this type of weapon, which threatens regional security.

Ukraine: An Advanced Defensive Power in Drone Warfare

Ukraine has long been at the forefront of countries facing drone threats, which have become a central weapon in modern conflicts. Over the past years of the war against Russia, Ukraine developed advanced methods and technologies to counter drones, enabling it now to extend this expertise to the Middle East. Zelensky added that Ukraine is ready to sell intercepting drones that its own forces do not use, reflecting its willingness to support partners in addressing aerial threats.

Ukraine is an advanced defensive power in drone warfare (AFP)

This cooperation opens the door for Ukraine to strengthen its influence in the region, as it hopes that it will help deepen its long-term relationships with Gulf countries and the United States. By offering its expertise in countering drones, Ukraine aims to demonstrate how the strategies it developed during its war with Russia can provide significant benefits to the security of its partners in the Middle East.

However, Ukraine faces multiple challenges, the most notable being a shortage of U.S. Patriot missiles, which are essential for air defense, along with concerns that a prolonged conflict in the Middle East could delay U.S. air defense supplies. In an effort to address this issue, Zelensky proposed to U.S. allies in the region to exchange some of their air defense missiles for Ukrainian intercepting drones, an offer that reflects the growing importance of defense cooperation at this stage.

At the same time that Ukraine is expanding its military efforts, it has also intensified domestic weapons production in cooperation with several European countries. Many factories specialized in manufacturing drones have been established, with plans to produce large quantities for export, including to Gulf states. This move is part of Ukraine’s strategy to strengthen its defense capabilities and deepen military cooperation with its allies through joint weapons production.

The Western message aims to enhance military cooperation between the West and Gulf countries by providing them with Ukrainian drones and military trainers to bolster Gulf defense capabilities against Iranian threats. The Gulf states benefit from Ukrainian expertise in countering drones, which enhances regional stability and deepens cooperation with the West, particularly the United States. However, this move could create tensions with Russia’s supporters. Despite these political challenges, the initiative contributes to strengthening regional security.

At the same time, Ukraine stands to gain from this cooperation by enhancing its international relationships, especially with the United States and Gulf countries, providing important support in facing challenges on the Russian front.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Annahar