When it comes to ukraine sent drone experts to protect us bases in jordan, says zelenskyy , ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the deployment of interceptor drones and specialized operators to protect US military bases in Jordan last week, amid escalating tensions in the region due to ongoing conflict involving Iran. This move comes as part of Ukraine's response to a direct request from the United States, highlighting its commitment to bolstering security in the Middle East as the US-Israeli conflict against Iran enters its tenth day.
Understanding Ukraine Sent Drone Experts To Protect US Bases In Jordan, Says Zelenskyy
During an interview, Zelenskyy confirmed that his government had responded to requests for assistance from 11 nations, including several neighboring Iran and European allies. As the US continues its military engagement in the region, Zelenskyy noted on social media, "there are 11 requests from countries neighbouring Iran, European states, and the US," emphasizing that Ukraine aims to provide "concrete decisions and specific support." Originally reported by The Guardian.
Jordan, which hosts a significant presence of US forces at the Muwaffaq Salti airbase, was one of the countries that reached out for help last Thursday. Following the request, a Ukrainian team departed for Jordan the next day, reflecting Ukraine's strategy to enhance its diplomatic ties with Gulf and Middle Eastern countries facing Iranian hostilities.
Assessing Vulnerabilities and Strengthening Defenses
Recent satellite imagery has revealed that the radar systems integral to the US Thaad air defense system at the Jordanian base were either damaged or destroyed by Iranian attacks, a worrying trend for security in the region. Orysia Lutsevych, a researcher at the Chatham House think tank, remarked that Ukraine is positioning itself as a valuable ally to the US and its partners by sharing its combat experience in exchange for support and goodwill.
With growing concerns about Iran and Russia's collaborative efforts, particularly regarding intelligence sharing, Zelenskyy has recognized the pressing need for Ukraine to bolster defensive capabilities not just for its own borders but for allied nations as well. Lutsevych pointed out, "If Russia sends intelligence to Iran - Ukraine will send specialists and interceptors to defend these bases and energy and water infrastructure."
Expanding Diplomatic Efforts in the Middle East
In recent communications, Zelenskyy has engaged with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan, underlining the importance of coordinating security efforts across both Europe and the Middle East. Following a conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgency of collaborative security measures.
Since late September, Ukraine has faced relentless drone assaults, particularly from Iranian-designed Shahed-136 drones, which have become a significant threat. These drones, initially developed in Iran, have been mass-produced by Russia, driving Ukraine to innovate its air defense strategies. As of now, Ukraine has achieved interception rates exceeding 85% to 90%, showcasing its evolving capabilities.
Costs and Comparisons of Air Defense Strategies
On Saturday, Ukraine's air force reported successfully intercepting 453 out of 480 incoming drones, a testament to its improved systems. Initially relying on ground-based machine gun crews and limited fighter aircraft, Ukraine has shifted to utilizing cost-effective Shahed interceptors, such as the Sting missile produced by Wild Hornets, which costs around $2,000 (£1,500) each. In February, these interceptors managed to neutralize over 70% of Shahed-type drones near Kyiv.
In contrast, Gulf and Middle Eastern nations have heavily depended on US-made Patriot and Thaad systems to counter missiles and drones from Iran. The financial disparity is stark: a single Shahed-136 drone costs approximately $50,000, while a Patriot interceptor can run around $4 million. Zelenskyy indicated that "more than 800" Patriots were deployed within a span of three days last week, significantly depleting global stocks and raising concerns about future availability for Ukraine and its Middle Eastern allies.
Despite the recent decrease in Iran's missile launches-reportedly dropping by 80% since the conflict began-analysts caution that the potential for regional instability remains high. While the demand for advanced air defense systems like the Thaad, with a price tag of about $12.8 million each, continues to grow, the ability to produce these systems efficiently remains a pressing challenge for manufacturers.
As Ukraine strengthens its partnerships and showcases its military capabilities, the international community will be watching closely. The ramifications of these developments could reshape security dynamics in both Europe and the Middle East, particularly in light of ongoing threats from Iran and its allies.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.