United States deploys Merops anti-drone systems to the Middle East

The United States has begun transferring a limited number of Merops anti-drone systems from military stockpiles in Europe to the Middle East. These systems, designed to counter Iranian UAVs, were previously utilized during the war in Ukraine. The deployment includes US military personnel who will operate the equipment and provide training to local units. The manufacturer, Perennial Autonomy—backed by investors including former Google executive Eric Schmidt—is expected to supply additional units. US officials indicated that Ukrainian military trainers may also assist in the instruction process, following recent statements by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that regional allies have sought Ukrainian expertise. Representatives from Qatar and other Gulf nations have also visited Ukraine to evaluate combat-tested defense technologies. The initiative aims to address drone threats in the region by leveraging tactical experience gained in the Ukrainian conflict.