First in the world: Ukraine downs Shahed drone in new way
Photo: Shahed-type strike drone (Getty Images)
Unmanned Systems Forces used a new tactic against Shahed drones — an aerial target was destroyed by a drone launched from an unmanned surface platform, according to the 412th Separate Brigade Nemesis of the Unmanned Systems Forces.
"The division of unmanned surface systems within the 412th Nemesis Brigade of the Unmanned Systems Forces is carrying out combat missions in the maritime operational zone," the statement said.
The Shahed-type strike drone was destroyed by an interceptor drone launched from an unmanned surface platform.
Shahed drone shot down for the first time by sea-launched drone pic.twitter.com/RHc9SQcXe0
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) April 19, 2026
"This is a new level of integration of maritime and aerial unmanned capabilities," the brigade emphasized.
They added that using surface platforms as carriers for interceptor drones expands the ability to counter aerial threats and creates an additional layer of defense.
The active deployment of new drone-based solutions is linked to their growing role on the battlefield. At present, Ukraine's Defense Forces maintain an advantage in strike drones, with the frontline ratio estimated at roughly 1.3 to 1 in favor of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
At the same time, Russia is attempting to change the situation. Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Russia plans to expand its unmanned systems forces to 101,000 personnel, particularly to strengthen positions in southern directions where it is losing the initiative.
