**Ukraine Turns to Homegrown Solution to Defend Kyiv Against Russian Drone Attacks**
The city of Kyiv is getting a new layer of protection against Russian aerial strikes, thanks to a homegrown drone interceptor system. Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration, announced on July 11 that Ukraine is deploying a new Clear Sky project to defend the capital.
**A Growing Threat**
Russia has been intensifying its drone attacks across Ukraine in recent weeks, targeting cities including Kyiv. The strikes have resulted in widespread destruction and civilian casualties. In response, Ukraine is turning to low-cost interceptor drones as an alternative to Western arms deliveries, which have faced delays and shortages.
**Clear Sky: A Homegrown Solution**
The Clear Sky project aims to protect Kyiv with the support of domestically made drone interceptors. The initiative includes establishing a training center for drone operators and forming additional mobile units to patrol Kyiv and its outskirts. Ukraine has allocated Hr 260 million ($6.2 million) for the project, with plans to raise extra-budgetary funds.
**Test Successes**
During several months of testing, the system intercepted nearly 550 Russian drones over Kyiv Oblast. According to Tkachenko, “Those 550 intercepted (Shahed-type drones) are not just numbers — they represent lives saved, infrastructure protected, and hospitals, schools, and energy facilities preserved.”
**A Stronger Defense**
Tkachenko emphasized that the Clear Sky project is an investment in the safety of every resident of Kyiv. “While Russia continues its attacks, we continue to strengthen our defenses,” he said. The success of this initiative demonstrates Ukraine’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to the growing threat from Russia.
**A Record-Breaking Attack**
The Russian aggression against Ukraine has been escalating throughout late spring and early summer 2025. A July 10 attack killed two people and injured another 28 in Kyiv, following a record-breaking mass strike on July 9 that used 728 drones and seven cruise and six ballistic missiles.
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