Iran recently attempted to launch an attack on Israel on April 14 using 185 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), 36 cruise missiles, and 110 ballistic missiles. However, their efforts were largely unsuccessful, with only one percent of the launched means hitting their targets. This failure was attributed to Israel’s multi-layered defense systems, fighter jets, and other military capabilities, which were utilized in coordination with partners such as the USA, the UK, and Jordan.
Despite this setback, the affordability of Iranian UAVs remains a driving factor for some countries. While the effectiveness of Iranian-made UAVs in other conflicts has been noted, their performance against Western defense systems like those of Israel has been less impressive. Countries considering Iranian-made UAVs typically do not view them as a threat to advanced adversaries like the US and Israel. The recent attack on Israel by Iranian-backed forces showcased the limitations of these drones against sophisticated defenses. However, Iran’s supply of drones to various conflict zones, such as Sudan, highlights their strategic partnerships and influence in regional conflicts.
Iran’s decentralized approach to UAV production makes it challenging to disrupt their supply chains. Despite international efforts to monitor and regulate Iranian drone exports, Iran continues to find new markets for its UAVs. The collaboration between Iran and other countries, such as Venezuela and Tajikistan, demonstrates the complex nature of the global arms trade and the blurred lines between allies and adversaries.
In conclusion