Israel improves 'Shahed killer' technology but conceals it even from US
Photo: Shahed drones (defence-ua.com)
Ukraine continues to use AIM-9M missiles to intercept aerial targets. However, after the recent modernisation of this weapon in Israel, the question arises whether such upgrades could also become available to the Ukrainian army, according to TWZ.
After Iran’s mass attack, Israel upgraded the seeker head of the AIM-9 M sidewinder, which has increased the missile’s effectiveness against long-range strike drones such as Shaheds, actively used by Russia in attacks on Ukraine.
As noted in a report by the Foreign Policy Research Institute, the baseline AIM-9 M version proved less effective compared to the AIM-9X, which prompted the modernisation.
According to FPRI, the implemented changes notably improved the AIM-9M’s ability to intercept targets, especially demonstrating good performance against Shaheds.
At the same time, Israel keeps all details of the upgrade classified: it is unclear whether it concerns software, hardware, or a combination of both.
Perspectives for Ukraine
Given that Ukraine actively uses AIM-9M missiles against strike drones, the upgrade could become valuable in countering mass attacks by Russian forces. However, the likelihood of transferring such technology remains extremely low.
Israel traditionally maintains a very cautious stance, and the modernised AIM-9M has not yet been transferred even to allies, including the US.
What Ukraine is currently using effectively on battlefield
Ukrainian units have started deploying the new TFL-1 terminal guidance system, which improves the accuracy of FPV drones and allows them to complete the flight along the intended trajectory even if the connection with the operator is lost.
Germany-based Helsing is also expanding the production of its HX-2 combat drone and is already sending these systems to Ukrainian units. Successful testing and the shift to serial manufacturing strengthen the model’s position among tactical unmanned aircraft.
Ukraine is actively ramping up domestic drone production, aiming to remove dependence on Chinese DJI Mavic systems. The first several thousand indigenous platforms have already been delivered to frontline troops.
Ukraine has significantly strengthened its position in drone technologies in a short time and has become one of the world leaders in drone manufacturing.
Additionally, Russia has rapidly increased production of the BTR-82, effectively restoring large-scale manufacturing of Soviet-era armoured vehicles.
