UKRAINE SEEKS STRATEGIC GAINS FROM COOPERATION AGAINST IRANIAN DRONES

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the US had requested Ukraine's assistance in combating Iranian made unmanned aerial vehicles and said that Ukraine aims to acquire more Patriot air defense systems in return for this cooperation.

Beyond this, the US and several Gulf states have requested technological support and expertise from Ukraine in the fight against Iranian made Shahed drones. Ukraine has significant defense experience in this area, having encountered such drones during Russia's long running attacks.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine could provide this assistance, but stressed that it should not weaken the country's own defense. Ukraine has also proposed a type of exchange agreement with certain countries for the supply of missiles used in the Patriot air defense system within the framework of this cooperation. In this regard, Ukraine aims to obtain more missiles for the Patriot system in exchange for its own developed anti drone systems.

Although there are concerns that support for Ukraine may decrease due to the war in the Middle East, Zelensky wants to assess this crisis diplomatically and militarily in the interests of Ukraine. Ukraine is also holding talks with Gulf countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, offering partnerships to protect bases and civilian facilities from Iranian attacks. However, experts note that even if Ukraine obtains weapons, it may struggle to provide its allies with the necessary training and expertise.

On the other hand, this partnership process also brings some serious risks and challenges to light. Increasing tensions in the Middle East could divert international public attention and military resources away from Ukraine. Such a situation could make it even more difficult for Ukraine, which is fighting Russia, particularly in terms of air defense systems and ammunition. Moreover, if oil prices rise, Russia's military spending will increase, posing a separate risk for Ukraine.

The limited number of Patriot air defense missiles in Ukraine's possession is also seen as a serious problem. Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently announced that hundreds of Patriots had been launched, exceeding the total number received by Ukraine during the war. Therefore, Ukraine is concerned that diverting these weapons to wars in the Middle East would weaken its own defense.

Additionally, Ukrainian military experts emphasize that allied countries should not only supply weapons but also provide comprehensive training and operational experience to effectively use these systems. It is noted that Ukraine's current training centers are fully occupied with programs for its own soldiers and civilians. This situation is seen as a significant operational obstacle that could make it difficult for Ukraine to provide quick and effective support to its foreign partners.

As a result, the desire of the US and some Gulf states to benefit from Ukraine's experience in combating Iranian made unmanned aerial vehicles is creating new opportunities for Ukraine, both politically and militarily. However, the Volodymyr Zelenskyy administration emphasizes that such a partnership is only possible if it does not weaken Ukraine's defense capabilities. Therefore, Ukraine is seeking to strengthen its security and enhance its international position by bolstering critical defense assets, such as Patriot air defense missiles, in exchange for potential support.

References:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr5llg0e9g9o