**Russia’s Drone Arsenal: A Threat to Ukraine’s National Security**
The war between Russia and Ukraine has seen a significant escalation in aerial assaults, with Russia using drones to target Ukrainian cities. According to reports, Russia launched 728 Shahed-type drones on July 9, shattering its own record for the highest number of drone attacks.
**Iranian Technology and Russian Drones**
Russia has been using Iranian-made drones since 2022, specifically the Shahed-131 and Shahed-136 models. These drones are designed to be low-cost, with prices reaching up to $80,000 per unit. Since then, Russia has produced its own modified versions, the Geran-1 and Geran-2, which have been equipped with improved navigation systems and more destructive warheads.
**Decoy Drones: A New Tactic**
In 2024, Russia began using decoy drones to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses. These drones, known as Parodya and Gerbera, are designed to mimic the electronic and radar signatures of attack drones, making them difficult to distinguish from real threats. They are also cheaper to produce, with prices reaching up to $10,000 per unit.
**The Impact on Ukraine**
Despite Ukrainian air defenses shooting down 270 aerial threats and jamming 208 more, the recent Russian drone attack killed three people and injured 32 others in Kyiv, including a 10-year-old girl. Experts warn that Russia’s production of drones is set to increase, with reports suggesting that over 5,000 long-range drones are being produced each month.
**What’s Next?**
Experts predict that Russia will continue to modify its drone technology, potentially introducing new models such as the Geran 3, which would have improved speed and durability. However, these upgrades may come at a steep cost, affecting mass production and affordability.
**Conclusion**
The use of drones in warfare has become a significant concern for Ukraine’s national security. As Russia continues to escalate its drone attacks, it is essential to understand the capabilities and limitations of these technologies. The Kyiv Independent will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
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Note from the author:
As someone who has lived through the horror of Russian drone attacks, I can attest to the devastating impact they have on civilians. Our community at the Kyiv Independent is dedicated to supporting those affected by these crimes and bringing attention to the scale of Russia’s aggression. If you want to join us in this fight, consider supporting our work today.
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This article was written by Kateryna Hodunova, News Editor at the Kyiv Independent.
