Ukraine has emerged as a global leader in drone production and counter-drone capabilities since the start of the war with Russia in February 2022, prompting growing interest from Gulf countries facing Iranian drone threats.

Axar.az reports, political analyst Elkhan Shahinoglu said Ukraine initially lacked drones and relied on imports from Turkiye, but has since developed advanced domestic production and significant battlefield experience. “Gulf countries subjected to Iranian drone attacks have decided to benefit from Ukraine’s experience,” he noted.

Shahinoglu added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently held a successful visit to the Gulf, with countries expected to purchase drones capable of countering Iranian UAVs. He also highlighted Japan’s decision to cooperate with Ukraine in drone production, arguing that recent conflicts show “expensive air defense systems are not fully effective against low-cost drones.”

He further suggested that rising global tensions, including China and North Korea’s military buildup, may push Japan to reconsider its post-World War II pacifist constitution. While Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi supports constructive ties with China, concerns over Taiwan and regional military activity are forcing Tokyo to strengthen its defense posture.