Could Ukraine’s drone expertise serve Gulf countries?

Inside StoryGulf nations seek new defence partnerships as Iran war escalates.Gulf countries have been bombarded by Iranian missiles and drones since the US-Israeli war on Iran began a month ago.They have used advanced air defence systems to counter the attacks. But interceptor missiles are expensive and take time to manufacture.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4How extensive is Russia’s military aid to Iran?list 2 of 4Is Europe heading to an energy crisis?list 3 of 4Ukraine announces ‘mutually beneficial’ defence deal with Saudi Arabialist 4 of 4Ukraine’s Zelenskyy signs air defence deals with UAE, Qatar on Gulf tourend of listUkraine, under near-daily attack from Russia, has spent four years perfecting interceptor drones that can be produced quickly and cheaply.Some Gulf nations are asking Ukraine to share its expertise. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have already signed defence agreements. If others reach similar deals, what could they offer Ukraine?And how beneficial are Ukrainian drones to Gulf countries under attack from Iran?Presenter: Adrian FinneganGuests:Dania Thafer – Executive director of the Gulf International Forum, a think tank based in Washington, DCOleksiy Melnyk – Co-director of the Foreign Relations and International Security programmes at the Razumkov CentrePavel Felgenhauer – Defence and Russian foreign policy analystPublished On 28 Mar 2026