US develops its own version of Iranian Shahed drone - Here's everything we know
Illustrative photo: US develops its own version of Iranian Shahed drone (Getty Images)
The United States has developed an analogue of the Iranian Shahed-136 drone, which Russia has been widely using in attacks against Ukraine. The American drone is called the MQM-172 Arrowhead, according to International Defense Analysis.
The IDA community shared photos of the American drone on August 7, revealing the appearance of the MQM-172 Arrowhead.
According to the report, this UAV is a second, upgraded version modeled after the Iranian Shahed.
However, details about its combat capabilities, range, endurance, or production cost have not been disclosed.
Drones in the US
In June 2025, US President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at boosting the country's drone capabilities. The measures are designed to enhance national security and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturers.
In July, the US tested a strike drone named LUCAS, which has been described as an analogue to the Iranian kamikaze drones Shahed-136. The project was developed by American company SpektreWorks.
It also became known that the Pentagon simulated Ukrainian battlefield conditions to test its drones. These trials were conducted in Alaska at the end of July.
