Ukraine plans to exchange interceptor drones for air defense missiles from Middle Eastern countries
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an interview with Le Monde that the country is working on exchanging modern interceptor drones for air defense systems from partners in the Middle East.
“The U.S. has approached us regarding their bases in Middle Eastern countries. We have also received requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. We are already working with some of them, and our expert teams on the ground are assessing the situation and sharing invaluable experience,” Zelenskyy said.
He emphasized that even the Patriot and THAAD systems currently deployed in the Middle East do not provide full protection against dense drone attacks.
“There are modern interceptors designed to counter dense drone strikes. We are currently discussing the future supply of certain items that Ukraine possesses, and we want Middle Eastern countries to help us strengthen our air defense. They have missiles that we lack,” the president noted.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine is also facing a funding shortage, and the defense industry is operating at only half capacity. Therefore, surplus drone interceptors could be sold to partners along with Ukrainian expertise.
“Drones don’t work without our expertise. It’s the system that works,” he added.
As a reminder, Russia is nearing the completion of its phased delivery of drones, medicines, and food to Iran.
