Kuwait has agreed to purchase a sophisticated anti-drone defense system from US defense technology company Anduril in a deal worth approximately $1.98 billion, aimed at strengthening the country’s defenses against Iranian drone threats.
The US Department of State has approved the proposed sale, stating that it supports American foreign policy and national security objectives. According to a statement released on Friday, the sale will contribute to political stability and economic development in the Middle East while enhancing the security of one of Washington’s major non-NATO allies in the region.
Kuwait hosts eight US military facilities, including two major air bases that support American military operations across the Gulf. The remaining installations serve as joint military and logistics centers.
The defense deal comes amid heightened regional tensions following the conflict between the United States and Iran that began with the US military operation known as “Operation Epic Fury” on February 28. After 40 days of fighting, both sides announced a ceasefire on April 8.
During the conflict, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched multiple drone and missile attacks targeting US military facilities across the Middle East. Kuwait was among the countries most affected by the strikes.
According to reports, Iranian attacks before the ceasefire resulted in the deaths of five people in Kuwait, including two military personnel, while causing millions of dollars in infrastructure damage.
On Wednesday, a drone strike targeting Kuwait International Airport reportedly killed one person and injured 63 others. Earlier on Friday, another missile launched toward Kuwait was intercepted and destroyed by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), according to defense officials.
The acquisition of the anti-drone system is expected to significantly enhance Kuwait’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize hostile unmanned aerial vehicles and missile threats, reinforcing the country’s national security amid ongoing regional instability.
