Iranian Drone Swarms Push U.S. Defenses Toward Layered Counter‑Drone Shield

Iran’s sustained drone attacks are testing U.S. air defenses in the Middle East and prompting the Pentagon to broaden layered counter-drone defenses, combining short-range interceptors, electronic warfare, and emerging high-energy lasers. The UAE reported multiple missiles and drones launched by Iran, underscoring the cost advantage of cheaper drones over missiles and the need for scalable defenses. Systems like Merops are being deployed, and lessons from Ukraine are shaping U.S. planning as officials push to expand defensive depth across CENTCOM to protect bases and ships from mass drone waves.