5 hours ago
Last Updated:May 17, 2025, 11:02 IST
Donald Trump contrasted Iran's drone production costs of "$35,000 to $40,000" with US manufacturers' quotes of $41 million for comparable technology.
US President Donald Trump (Image Credit: Reuters)
US President Donald Trump commended the cost-effectiveness and performance of Iranian drones while criticizing the high prices quoted by American defense contractors. At a press briefing, the US President highlighted the significant disparity in cost between Iranian-produced unmanned aerial vehicles and similar models proposed by US companies.
Contrasting Iran’s drone production costs of “$35,000 to $40,000" with US manufacturers’ quotes of $41 million for comparable technology, Donald Trump said, “I asked one of the companies I want a lot of drones… and in the case of Iran, they make a good drone. And it makes them for 35-40 thousand dollars. So I say to this company, I wanna see… they came in 2 weeks later with a drone that cost 41 million. I said that’s not what I’m talking about." Donald Trump also called the Iranian drones “very good too and fast and deadly".
Donald Trump On Trade With Iran
In a separate interview, Donald Trump indicated an openness to trade negotiations with Iran, provided they refrain from pursuing nuclear weapons. He said, “Iran wants to trade with us… and I’m OK with that," adding, “We make a deal, they’ll be very happy. But… they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon."
He also suggested a broader strategy, saying, “I’m using trade to settle scores and to make peace." During his Gulf tour, the US President expressed growing optimism regarding a potential nuclear agreement with Iran, suggesting it could be achieved without military intervention.
He said, “We’re not going to be making any nuclear dust in Iran. I think we’re getting close to maybe doing a deal without having to do this." These remarks reportedly led to a drop in global oil prices.
Location :Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
First Published:News world Donald Trump Praises Iran's 'Fast And Deadly' Drones, Slams US Defense Costs
