**Ukraine Defies Russian Drone Attacks, Downing 82% of Targets Despite Missile Shortage**
As the war between Ukraine and Russia rages on, the Ukrainian military has been facing a daunting challenge: defending against relentless drone attacks by the Russian forces. However, despite a serious shortage of surface-to-air missiles, Ukraine’s defense forces have managed to down approximately 82% of Russian Shahed-type drones during recent aerial attacks.
According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, who spoke with journalists on June 21, the Ukrainian army needs many more surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft missile systems to ensure reliable protection for cities and critical infrastructure facilities. The situation is dire, with Russian attacks surging in May and June, and a record-breaking mass strike against Kyiv on June 17 killing 30 people and injuring over 170.
**Mobile Fire Groups: A Key Defense Strategy**
To counter the Russian drone onslaught, Ukraine has been relying heavily on mobile fire groups. These units have proven to be highly effective, with some reportedly achieving an interception rate of up to 40%. Syrskyi explained that these mobile fire groups are crucial in defending against Shahed drones, as they can quickly mobilize and respond to incoming threats.
The effectiveness of these mobile fire groups has been a significant factor in Ukraine’s ability to down so many Russian drones. According to reports, aviation units are used almost every night to repel Russian air attacks, featuring helicopter crews and fighter aircraft from the Ukrainian Air Force, which includes U.S.-made F-16 and French Mirage-2000 aircraft.
**Cooperation with International Partners**
Syrskyi also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in Ukraine’s defense efforts. The country has been working closely with its partners to obtain modern surveillance and targeting systems that enhance the combat capabilities of Ukrainian helicopters. This cooperation, particularly with Canadian partners, has been instrumental in bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses.
**Developing Interceptor Drones**
As Ukraine scales up its use of interceptor drones, the country is also working on developing other means of protection against Russian air raids in non-front-line oblasts. The Ukrainian army has cleared five types of interceptor drones for use and is forming new units to operate them. Some Air Force units have already downed dozens of Russian Shaheds, according to Syrskyi.
However, the effective use of these interceptor drones is hindered by a lack of tactical radar systems in Ukraine. To overcome this challenge, the country needs hundreds more of these radars, such as those made by Israel’s RADA Electronic Industries.
**A Complex and Ongoing Challenge**
The situation on the ground remains complex and fluid. The effectiveness of Ukraine’s air defenses will continue to be put to the test by Russian drone attacks. As the conflict drags on, it is clear that international cooperation and support for Ukraine’s defense efforts will remain crucial in the face of these challenges.
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