Young Professionals: Iranian Drones Evolved

The Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC) Young Professionals Program hosted an engaging discussion on "Iranian Drones Evolved: How Western Sanctions Created a Drone Superpower," bringing together leading experts to examine the evolution of Iran's unmanned aerial capabilities and their growing impact on modern warfare. The conversation explored how decades of Western sanctions unintentionally accelerated Iran's domestic drone industry, resulting in low-cost, adaptable, and scalable unmanned systems that have reshaped conflicts across the Middle East and beyond. Panelists also discussed the strategic role of drones in surveillance, asymmetric warfare, influence operations, and the evolving security challenges they present on the global stage. Featured speakers Dr. Benjamin Radd (MIT Security Studies Program, UCLA, USC Gould School of Law) and Mietek P. Boduszyński (Pomona College and former U.S. Department of State diplomat) shared insights drawn from their extensive experience in foreign policy, international security, and conflict studies. The discussion was moderated by Mark Kahanding, Founder & CEO of Cobalt Academy, U.S. Army Field Artillery Officer, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, and LAWAC Young Professionals Board Member, who contributed firsthand perspectives on counter-drone operations and emerging battlefield technologies. The panel also examined the dual-use nature of drone technology, highlighting how unmanned systems are increasingly used not only in combat but also to document war crimes, support humanitarian efforts, and strengthen accountability in conflict zones. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to an insightful evening of dialogue on one of the most consequential developments in modern security and international affairs. Learn more about the Los Angeles World Affairs Council: https://www.lawac.org #LAWAC #YoungProfessionals #DroneWarfare #Iran #NationalSecurity #ForeignPolicy #Geopolitics #Defense #InternationalRelations #UAS #MilitaryTechnology