Zelensky Claims Over 200 Ukrainian Experts Assisting US Allies in Countering Iranian Shahed Drones

Gate News Report, March 18 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that over 200 Ukrainian military experts are assisting the U.S. and its allies in the Middle East and Gulf regions to counter Iran’s “Shahed” drones. Currently, 201 personnel are deployed in these areas, with an additional 44 on standby.

In a speech to the UK Parliament, Zelenskyy highlighted that these personnel have extensive experience in drone countermeasures and are helping to build defense systems, including deploying interception teams and establishing radar and sonar coverage networks. He disclosed that these teams have entered Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and are en route to Kuwait to carry out missions.

Although specific responsibilities have not been fully disclosed, Ukraine emphasizes that its core technology focuses on systematized air defense capabilities rather than single interception devices. Zelenskyy cited the UK military base in Cyprus as an example, explaining that Ukrainian experts can quickly establish multi-layered defenses to monitor and intercept drone paths in real time.

Ukraine has gained practical experience in countering Russia’s “Shahed” drones over the long term, achieving an interception success rate of approximately 90%. Meanwhile, Kyiv continues to optimize its air defense cost structure by adopting low-cost interception drones and vehicle-mounted weapons to cope with the economic pressures of large-scale drone attacks.

Following the “Operation Epic Fury,” Iran has launched a large number of one-way attack drones into the Middle East, prompting countries to seek more cost-effective defense solutions. Compared to the approximately $20,000 “Shahed” drones, traditional air defense missiles can cost several million dollars, making “low-cost interception” a key development focus.

Zelenskyy also revealed that Ukraine can currently produce about 2,000 intercept drones daily, with an actual demand of around 1,000 units. The remaining capacity can support allies. He stated that discussions are ongoing with the U.S. regarding drone cooperation plans, which may also expand to more countries in the future.

Additionally, Ukraine has developed a real-time tracking system that monitors the trajectories and interception status of all incoming drones and missiles via terminal devices. Zelenskyy emphasized that the effectiveness of defense depends on the overall system coordination, not just individual equipment deployment. (Business Insider)