Ukraine has stepped up its defense against Russia’s Shahed drone swarms with the development of new interceptor drones, capable of taking down the fast-moving Iranian-made drones. The Ukrainian government is banking on these new systems to restore public safety amid a growing number of civilian casualties.
President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office confirmed that Ukraine is already using interceptors to shoot down Shaheds and plans to expand production. The development comes as the US cuts its military aid to Ukraine, leaving Russia to dominate the skies with its expanding drone fleet.
Military officials say the new interceptor drones are crucial in filling a gap in traditional anti-air defenses. Bohdan Danyliv, head of the Serhiy Prytula Fund, stated that Ukrainian air defense systems have run out of key components, making it necessary to focus on developing these new interceptors.
The Ukrainian government has recognized anti-Shahed defense as a top priority and is testing 10 models of interceptor drones. Four of these drones are estimated to work effectively against Shaheds and Gerans. The Prytula Foundation reported that its funding of earlier interceptor drones was successful, with one drone shooting down a Gerbera drone.
The development of new interceptors comes as Ukraine faces significant air defense challenges. Domestic production of surface-to-air missiles is limited, and the country relies on imports from the US, which has been inconsistent in its support. The cost-effectiveness of interceptors, priced at under $5,000 per unit, makes them a more accessible option compared to traditional air defense systems.
Russia’s superior drone production capacity poses significant challenges for Ukraine’s new interceptor drones. With Russia producing 70 Gerans a day and sending large swarms by night, it remains to be seen whether these new interceptors can effectively counter the enemy’s aerial threat.
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/ukraines-new-interceptor-drones-are-starting-to-knock-russias-long-range-shahed-drones-out-of-the-sky