France, March 20 -- On paper, the Shahed‑136 is unremarkable. It spans barely 2.5 metres, is powered by an engine that looks more like that of a small car than a jet and relies on basic electronics - GPS, sensors and an autopilot module.

But its simplicity is its strength. While Washington and its allies invest in ultra‑connected, high‑end, un-manned aerial vehicles (UAV), Tehran is flooding the battlefield with a cheap and functional piece of equipment.

The geopolitical review Le Grand Continent places the cost of producing a Shahed at around €3,500 to €7,000 - much cheaper than Western drones. For instance the Switchblade drone series of US company Avinc carry a cost of between €10,00...