Ukraine has received 11 requests from different countries seeking assistance to counter Iranian made Shahed drones, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, highlighting Kyiv’s growing role in global drone defence efforts.
Zelenskyy said the requests came from countries including European partners, nations neighbouring Iran, and the United States. According to the Ukrainian leader, these governments are seeking Ukraine’s expertise after Kyiv developed effective strategies to intercept the Iranian designed drones during its war with Russia.
The Shahed drones, manufactured by Iran, have been widely used by Russia in attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Over the course of the war, Ukraine has developed a range of countermeasures including electronic warfare systems, interceptor drones, and new air defence tactics designed specifically to stop the slow moving but difficult to intercept drones.
Zelenskyy said some of the requests involve providing interceptor drones, electronic warfare tools, and specialized training to help countries strengthen their defences against similar drone threats. He noted that Ukraine has already taken concrete steps to respond to some of these requests.
Ukraine’s experience with Shahed drones has drawn global attention as conflicts in the Middle East intensify and Iran’s drone technology is increasingly used in regional attacks. Kyiv has indicated it is willing to share its expertise, but officials say any assistance to other countries will be carefully balanced to ensure Ukraine’s own defence capabilities are not weakened.
The requests highlight how the war in Ukraine has turned the country into one of the world’s most experienced forces in counter drone warfare, with lessons now being sought by governments facing similar threats from Iranian drone systems
Leave a comment