Saudi Arabia is negotiating with Ukraine to purchase a large batch of interceptor drones designed to protect against Iranian Shahed strike drones. The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing its own sources.
According to the publication, the potential value of the deal could reach millions of dollars, but it has not yet been finalized. In parallel, Riyadh is also discussing the possibility of purchasing Ukrainian electronic warfare equipment.
Other Gulf states are also showing interest in Ukrainian developments in the field of countering drones. In particular, representatives of Qatar have already come to Ukraine to familiarize themselves with the relevant technologies.
The Wall Street Journal notes that Ukraine uses not only missiles, but also a number of other means to protect its airspace. Among them are interceptor drones that destroy enemy drones by colliding or blowing them up near the target. Ukraine also effectively uses electronic warfare means that create interference for drone communication signals.
Previously, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine had already sent its troops to help protect American military bases in Jordan. In return, Kyiv, he said, is counting on diplomatic support from partners in the Middle East to pressure Russia to cease fire.
The President also reported that Ukraine had sent drone specialists to the first three countries in the Middle East — Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.
