The United States and Persian Gulf countries are negotiating with Ukraine about creating a system similar to the «Sky Fortress» acoustic detection network to counter Iranian strike drones, Financial Times reports. The outlet cites Ukrainian officials, representatives of drone manufacturers and a participant in the discussions.

According to the report, the talks are taking place at several levels — government, military and private sector. A source familiar with the discussions said the United States had sent very specific requests to Kiev and that Ukraine intends to provide solutions based on those requests.

On March 5, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kiev had received a request from Washington for practical support in defending against Shahed drones in the Middle East. He stated that he had instructed officials to provide the necessary capabilities and ensure the presence of Ukrainian specialists who could help guarantee security.

Earlier, Zelensky also said Ukraine was ready to offer interceptor drones to counter Shahed UAVs in exchange for PAC-3 missiles for Patriot air defense systems, which some Middle Eastern countries possess in significant numbers.

Sources told Financial Times that negotiations with Persian Gulf states are more complicated and require consultations within the region to determine which solutions are actually effective.

At the same time, a senior Ukrainian official told AFP that Ukrainian military personnel may soon travel to Persian Gulf countries to help repel Iranian drone attacks. The Times of Israel also reported on the planned deployment.