Overview
- After weeks of Iranian missile and drone barrages, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have run down interceptor stocks and are pursuing rapid resupply.
- The UAE has asked South Korean suppliers for more Cheongung-II missiles and quicker delivery, while Saudi Arabia is pressing to speed its existing order and is seeking Patriot components from Japan.
- Industry officials report urgent Gulf inquiries to LIG Nex1 and Hanwha to accelerate shipments of the M-SAM system, which includes launchers and radar made by Hanwha units.
- Gulf governments are adding cheaper layers by exploring Ukrainian interceptor drones, low-cost British missiles and electronic warfare tools to handle mass-produced Iranian drones.
- Strained U.S. and allied production is stretching timelines for systems like Patriot, pushing Gulf buyers to diversify supply chains and deepen ties with South Korea, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.