Drone defense firm credits Ukraine experience for Middle East role

Iran has expanded its use of low-cost drones as a tool of regional influence, supplying them to allied armed groups and using them in operations that have drawn sustained US and allied responses. Ukraine became a significant proving ground for counter-drone systems after Russia began employing Iranian-designed Shahed drones extensively, giving defense technology companies real operational conditions in which to develop and refine their products. US sanctions targeting Iranian drone supply chains have grown more extensive in recent years, with Washington applying financial and trade restrictions to both direct suppliers and intermediary networks operating in third countries including China.