Ukraine has deployed more than 200 counter-drone specialists to the Middle East to support regional efforts against Shahed-type unmanned aerial systems, as concerns grow over the spread of Iranian-origin drone threats.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the move during an address to the British Parliament, stating that 201 experts have already been sent, with additional personnel on standby for deployment.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukrainian specialists are currently operating in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with teams also en route to Kuwait.
The deployment was officially announced on March 8, with personnel departing the following day. Ukrainian officials said the decision followed consultations with partners in Europe, the United States and countries neighboring Iran.
Kyiv has also confirmed that agreements have been reached with several countries in the region to support counter-drone efforts.
“We do not want Iranian terror against its neighbors to succeed,” Zelenskyy said.
Leveraging battlefield experience
Ukrainian personnel bring extensive operational experience in countering Iranian-designed Shahed drones, which have been widely used during the war with Russia.
While specific details of the assistance have not been disclosed, the deployment is expected to include a mix of operational support and training for local forces.
Possible roles include the use of mobile air defense units equipped with interceptor drones, as well as advising regional partners on how to build and refine counter-UAS response systems.
Growing demand for Ukrainian counter-UAS expertise
The move demonstrates the increasing demand for Ukrainian expertise in countering drone threats, particularly as Shahed-type systems proliferate beyond the European theater.
The United Kingdom is also reportedly considering involving both British and Ukrainian specialists in support of Middle Eastern partners, further expanding cooperation in counter-drone operations.
Countries in the region, including Saudi Arabia, are also understood to be in discussions to acquire Ukrainian-developed interceptor drones to add a battle-proven layer to their air defense approach.
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Post Image Credit: Zelensky Evening Address
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