All 5 Central Asian militaries have drones, and 4 of the nations produce navy drones domestically. Drones had been first utilized in anger in Central Asia throughout Kyrgyz-Tajik border clashes in September 2022, when Kyrgyzstan’s drones had been used to assault positions in Tajikistan. Drone acquisition is a degree of delight — and of media protection — all through the area. Who’s supplying drones to Central Asia or serving to Central Asian governments produce their very own? Why do the Central Asian states even want drones? Becoming a member of host Bruce Pannier to debate this matter are visitors Derek Bisaccio, Forecast Worldwide’s lead analyst for Worldwide Protection Markets, specializing within the protection commerce within the Eurasia and Center East areas, and Francisco Olmos, senior researcher in Central Asian affairs at Spain’s GEOPOL 21 Heart, and in addition a analysis fellow on the London-based International Coverage Centre.