Ukraine Sends Drones and Experts to Bolster US Bases in Jordan

Ukraine has deployed interceptor drones and a team of anti-drone experts to protect United States military bases in Jordan from threats posed by Iranian drones. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced this initiative as part of a broader response to requests for assistance from the US, Europe, and 11 nations neighboring Iran, which are seeking strategies to counter the proliferation of explosive unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

During an interview with the *New York Times*, Zelensky noted that the American request for aid was received on March 7, 2024. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, particularly as Iran has been actively using its Shahed drones throughout the Middle East. Over the past four years, Ukraine has gained significant experience in combating these Iranian-designed drones, which have also been utilized in Russian military operations.

While the US military possesses advanced Patriot interceptor missiles to defend against aerial threats, these systems are expensive and in limited supply. Zelensky highlighted that Middle Eastern nations have depleted over 800 missiles in the early days of the ongoing conflict. Each missile costs more than $3 million to produce, significantly outpacing the cost of a single Shahed drone, which is estimated to be around $50,000.

In a tragic incident on March 1, six US soldiers were killed in Kuwait due to an Iranian drone strike that could not be intercepted in time. This incident has underscored the need for effective countermeasures against Iranian UAVs.

Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s readiness to assist its allies, stating, “There is clear interest in Ukraine’s experience in protecting lives, relevant interceptors, electronic warfare systems, and training.” He reiterated the commitment to respond positively to requests for support from nations that contribute to Ukraine’s defense.

The United States is reportedly leveraging Ukraine’s expertise as it accelerates the deployment of counter-drone systems tested in Ukraine to the Middle East. According to the *Wall Street Journal*, Merops drone killers, which can travel at speeds exceeding 180 mph, are on their way to the region. These compact systems are designed to be launched from vehicles and can autonomously target incoming drones by utilizing radio waves, radar, or even thermal imaging.

The Merops systems have demonstrated success in Ukraine and are produced at a fraction of the cost of Shahed drones, costing less than $10,000 each. While US officials have not yet detailed the specifics of their collaboration with Ukrainian drone experts, previous statements have indicated a willingness to welcome assistance from allied nations in countering Iranian threats.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the partnership between Ukraine and the United States in drone defense represents a significant step in addressing the escalating challenges posed by Iranian military capabilities in the region.