Ukraine Strengthens Air Defense with New Drone Units Amid Increasing Attacks
In response to a sharp rise in Russian drone strikes, Ukraine is forming new mobile air defense units equipped with interceptor drones. This initiative aims to enhance the country’s defense capabilities against high-speed threats, particularly the Shahed drones that often evade traditional air defense systems, reports 24brussels.
According to Yuriy Ihnat, head of the communications department of Ukraine’s Air Force, the decision is driven by the urgent need to counteract the escalating frequency of these drone attacks. Between June 1 and June 20, over 3,680 Shahed drones and decoy UAVs have been launched at Ukraine, significantly outpacing the average of approximately 600 launches per month a year ago.
Ihnat noted that the increased use of high-speed drones has prompted Ukraine to seek new interception methods. Volunteer Sergey Sternenko, whose foundation supplies drones to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, explained that Shahed drones can reach speeds of 200-300 km/h, while conventional reconnaissance drones, like Orlans, only fly at speeds up to 140 km/h. Specialized interceptors, which are already being produced in Ukraine, are necessary to effectively counter these threats.
The difficulty of targeting these drones is compounded by tactical changes from the enemy. Ihnat reported that Russian drones are now often flying at altitudes around 2 km, making them less accessible to mobile units using machine guns. Accurate fire is only achievable when drones fly below 1 km, allowing for detection via acoustic, visual, or thermal means.
Ihnat emphasized that the new units are being created to protect critical infrastructure in the rear, such as cities and towns that remain vulnerable during extensive attacks. Operators for the interceptor drones are also undergoing training.
Experts indicate that utilizing interceptor drones is a more economically viable option compared to launching surface-to-air missiles, with the cost of a single interceptor around $5,000, while a missile can cost up to $1 million.
Sternenko previously commented that mobile fire groups are still relying on machine guns because they have yet to learn how to operate with interceptor drones. He urged local administrations to implement necessary innovations to improve these capabilities.
This strategic shift from volunteer-based air defense units to formal military structures raises concerns about the potential for disorganized and uncoordinated responses within the country’s defense strategy, posing risks in the context of ongoing conflict.
