**US Redirects Anti-Drone Munitions to Middle East, Leaving Ukraine Exposed**
In a move that has left many wondering about the true priorities of the US military, it was revealed that just days before Israel launched a massive air assault on Iran, the US quietly redirected 20,000 anti-drone rockets originally bound for Ukraine to the Middle East.
The decision to divert these critical munitions was made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who confirmed the move to the Senate Appropriations Committee. The APKWS II air defense system, which is capable of converting standard rockets into laser-guided munitions, was redirected from Ukraine to CENTCOM, which oversees military operations in the Middle East.
**What’s at Stake**
The APKWS II system is a game-changer when it comes to defending against drone attacks. Developed by BAE Systems and used by all branches of the US military, it delivers precision at a relatively low cost – roughly $25,000 per round. The fact that this system was redirected from Ukraine, where it has been crucial in defending against Shahed-136 drone swarms, raises serious questions about the US’s priorities.
**A Strategic Pivot**
According to Ukrainian defense expert Kyrylo Danylchenko, the diversion of anti-drone munitions was directly linked to preparations for an Iranian response. “Over 300 strikes hit 100 targets overnight. Iran’s air defense was suppressed; bunker-busting bombs were used. Israel neutralized IRGC commanders responsible for Shahed operations against Ukraine,” he wrote on Facebook.
Danylchenko noted that Iran’s Shahed production lines were likely targeted, and that Israel may continue its strikes for up to two weeks if diplomatic efforts fail, exploiting a rare “window of regional vulnerability.”
**The Human Cost**
The diversion of anti-drone munitions from Ukraine comes at a critical time, when the country is still reeling from the ongoing conflict with Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that 20,000 “anti-Shahed” rockets – understood to be APKWS-equipped rounds – are being withheld, creating a serious gap in Ukraine’s air defenses.
**A Shift in Priorities**
The diversion of anti-drone munitions from Ukraine to the Middle East highlights a sharp shift in US strategic priorities. A system once intended to protect Ukrainian cities is now deployed to defend against a rapidly expanding confrontation with Iran. Whether Ukraine gets resupplied – or left exposed – is still an open question.
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