Over the weekend, Iranian drones struck targets in the UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Among them were US bases, airports, ports, and skyscrapers. The tactics mirror those Russia is using in Ukraine.
Repeating Russian Tactics
The Wall Street Journal reports that Iran is replicating Russia’s approach. Tehran launches “Shahed” drones in waves. These attacks create chaos, disrupt critical infrastructure, and put psychological pressure on civilians. Because Iran has a limited stockpile of ballistic missiles, it relies instead on drones that it produces on a large scale.
“Their main advantage here is that mass production is relatively simple and efficient, and they can launch it from both sea and land,” said analyst Danny Citrinovich.
WSJ analysts compare the “Shahed” assault method to Russia’s campaign in Ukraine. Russian forces have repeatedly targeted energy infrastructure with these drones, leaving Ukrainians without electricity and heating. Iran has now chosen the same tactic.
Consequences of the Iranian Attacks
Iran used drones to strike a US naval base in Bahrain, airports in Abu Dhabi and Kuwait, high-rise buildings in Dubai and Bahrain, as well as maritime ports. At least three people were killed in the UAE. Oman reported one fatality.
The attacks have disrupted global transport and raised concerns that oil prices could surge. Iran appears to be targeting vulnerable sectors of the global economy. Analysts believe Tehran aims to pressure US allies in the Persian Gulf and inflict economic damage on the West.
Because Gulf countries are geographically close to Iran, they have less time to prepare for incoming “Shahed” strikes. According to official government statements, Iran has launched 541 drones at the UAE, 283 at Kuwait, nine at Bahrain, 12 at Qatar, and dozens at Jordan. It has also attacked these countries with missiles. Israel intercepted more than 50 “Shaheds.” As Israel is located farther from Iran, the drones take longer to reach it.
Ukraine’s Experience
Security analysts are watching closely to see whether Iran is using upgraded UAV versions produced in Russia. After four years of full-scale war, Ukraine has become an expert in drone warfare technologies.
“Iran has watched Russia use the same tactics for four years,” said Samuel Bendett, a member of the Russia Studies Program.
He added that Persian Gulf states will need to share intelligence on drones and build multi-layered defense systems capable of countering them. Experts predict that countries fighting Iran will gradually improve their ability to defend against such attacks.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that Ukraine is ready to share its military experience amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. On March 1, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this publicly.
