The ongoing conflict involving Iran has entered a new phase as Tehran increasingly relies on low-cost drones to carry out attacks across the Middle East. Despite warnings from Donald Trump that Iran’s missile industry would be destroyed by American air strikes, Iran has continued to launch thousands of drones in an attempt to overwhelm regional defenses and create instability.
According to military estimates, more than 2,000 drones have been launched during the first days of the conflict. Many of these are the Shahed‑136 drone, a so-called “kamikaze drone” that carries explosives and detonates when it strikes its target. Although relatively small compared with traditional missiles, the drone can still cause serious damage.
One of the deadliest incidents occurred at a US military installation in Kuwait, where a drone strike killed six American soldiers. The attack demonstrated the ability of these drones to penetrate defense systems and hit strategic targets.
Attacks Across the Gulf
Iranian drone strikes have targeted several countries that host American military bases or cooperate with the United States. These include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, and Oman. Some attacks have also reached Israel, Jordan, and Iraq.
Key infrastructure has been among the main targets. In Saudi Arabia, the large oil refinery in Ras Tanura temporarily stopped production after a drone interception caused a fire. Meanwhile, Qatar was forced to close part of its major liquefied natural gas export facilities following drone threats.
Urban areas have also been affected. In the city of Dubai, a drone struck a luxury hotel located on the famous Palm Jumeirah, creating a large explosion and sending shockwaves through the surrounding area. Another strike targeted a radar facility connected to the United States Navy Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama, Bahrain.
These attacks have caused widespread concern among Gulf governments and residents, especially as some strikes occurred in densely populated cities.
Why These Drones Are Dangerous
The Shahed-136 drone is relatively cheap to produce, with estimates suggesting each unit costs between $20,000 and $50,000. By comparison, the missiles used to intercept them can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. This creates a strategic imbalance, forcing defenders to spend large amounts of money to stop relatively inexpensive weapons.
The drone measures about 3.5 metres in length and has a wingspan of roughly 2.5 metres. It carries a warhead containing about 50 kilograms of explosives. While this is far less powerful than ballistic missiles, it is still capable of destroying buildings, vehicles, or radar systems.
Unlike many modern drones, the Shahed-136 is not controlled remotely after launch. Instead, it is pre-programmed before take-off using satellite navigation. Once launched, it follows a fixed route until it reaches its target, where it dives and explodes on impact.
Another advantage is its ability to fly at low altitude, making it difficult for radar systems designed to detect missiles. The drone’s small size and narrow shape further reduce the chances of detection.
Swarm Strategy
Iran often launches these drones in large groups, a tactic known as “swarming.” By sending dozens or even hundreds at once, the aim is to overwhelm air-defense systems and increase the chances that some will reach their targets.
Military analysts say the strategy also forces the United States and its allies to use large numbers of expensive interceptor missiles. Over time, this could reduce their available stockpiles and weaken defensive capabilities.
International Response
The United States and its allies have been working to counter the threat. Fighter jets, missile defense systems, electronic jamming equipment, and even experimental laser weapons are being used to intercept incoming drones.
The US has also developed its own low-cost drone called Lucas drone system, which is designed to counter similar threats. According to American military officials, some of these drones have already been deployed in the region.
Despite these measures, the widespread use of inexpensive drones has proven to be a significant challenge for modern militaries.
Declining Drone Attacks
Recent military reports suggest that the number of drones launched by Iran has decreased significantly since the early days of the conflict. US commanders say the volume of attacks has dropped by more than 80 percent, likely due to continued air strikes targeting Iranian launch sites and weapons stockpiles.
However, it remains unclear how many drones Iran still possesses. Before the war, analysts believed Tehran had produced tens of thousands of these systems and stored them in underground facilities.
A New Type of Warfare
The conflict has highlighted how inexpensive drone technology is transforming modern warfare. Instead of relying solely on costly missiles and aircraft, countries can now deploy large numbers of cheap drones capable of causing disruption and fear.
As the war continues, experts believe drones will remain a central element of the conflict, shaping the strategies of both Iran and its opponents.
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