by Jack Diffley
Kyiv agrees to share its battlefield-tested drone expertise with Saudi Arabia, opening the door to deeper military cooperation and potential reciprocal support
Ukraine has signed a new agreement with Saudi Arabia to share its expertise in drone defence technology, marking a significant step in Kyiv’s efforts to expand international security partnerships amid the ongoing war with Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the deal following a visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He noted that Riyadh faces similar threats from Iran — including ballistic missiles and drone attacks — to those Ukraine has confronted since Russia’s full-scale invasion.
“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelensky said, underlining Ukraine’s growing reputation as a leader in drone warfare and countermeasures.
The agreement is expected to pave the way for future contracts, technological cooperation and investment. Zelensky also highlighted that Saudi Arabia possesses capabilities of interest to Ukraine, suggesting the partnership could develop into a mutually beneficial exchange.
Beyond defence cooperation, discussions between the two leaders touched on energy markets and allegations of Russian support for Iran, reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of global conflicts.
In a separate address to the Joint Expeditionary Force, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s advantage lies not only in producing advanced drone systems but also in its operational experience. “It is not just about technology, but real experience in using it and integrating it with broader air defence systems,” he said.
Kyiv is also seeking tangible support in return. Zelensky indicated that Ukraine is interested in acquiring additional air defence missiles from Middle Eastern partners, acknowledging critical shortages as the war with Russia continues.
Ukrainian defence companies have already drawn interest from Gulf states. Firms specialising in anti-drone electronic warfare systems report approaches from countries including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. However, exports remain subject to government approval, reflecting the sensitive balance between commercial opportunities and national security priorities.
Industry leaders emphasise that Ukraine’s immediate needs take precedence. “This is about survival,” said Volodymyr Zinovsky, head of TAF Industries, noting that companies are prepared to delay international deals if required.
The agreement comes amid reports that the United States may redirect certain military supplies from Ukraine to the Middle East due to the escalating conflict with Iran. Such a shift could increase the strategic importance of Ukraine’s domestic drone industry and its role as an exporter of military expertise.
As geopolitical tensions deepen, Kyiv appears determined to leverage its wartime experience into new alliances, while securing the resources it needs to sustain its own defence.
(Associated Medias) – all rights reserved
L’articolo Ukraine and Saudi Arabia Strike Drone Defence Deal proviene da Associated Medias.
