Pentagon, Gulf states explore Ukrainian-made interceptors to counter Iranian drones - report
Talks focus on lower-cost systems developed by Kyiv to defend against Shahed drone swarms as Patriot missile stocks decline, FT reports
The Pentagon and at least one Gulf government are in discussions about purchasing Ukrainian-made drone interceptors to counter attacks by Iranian Shahed drones, Financial Times reported industry figures in Ukraine saying. According to the report, the talks come as regional partners seek cheaper ways to defend against drone barrages from Iran following the joint American-Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Gulf states have been relying on Patriot air defense systems to intercept Iranian drones in recent days. However, the cost of the interceptor missiles and declining stockpiles have prompted interest in alternative solutions. Interceptor missiles used by the Patriot system, including PAC-3 variants, can cost more than $13.5 million each, while a single Shahed drone costs roughly $30,000.
Ukraine has developed lower-cost countermeasures during Russia’s large-scale drone attacks on its cities. Ukrainian industry has produced mass-manufactured interceptors costing only a few thousand dollars each that can destroy Russian-operated Shahed drones launched in large numbers.
One Ukrainian official described the discussions with the Pentagon to the Financial Times as a “sensitive” matter but acknowledged growing international interest. “However, it is obvious that there is a surge in interest in the Ukrainian drone interceptors, which can intercept the Shahed for a very low cost,” the official said. An industry source added that any export of Ukrainian systems, including those produced outside the country, would require coordination with Kyiv.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had recently discussed counter-drone cooperation with Gulf leaders. Zelensky said he spoke with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar, and Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, about Ukraine’s anti-drone technology.
“Ukraine’s expertise in countering ‘Shahed’ drones is currently the most advanced in the world,” Zelensky said. “However, any such cooperation aimed at protecting our partners can only proceed without diminishing our own defense capabilities.” The discussions highlight growing demand for lower-cost air defense tools as countries seek ways to counter increasingly widespread drone warfare.