Russia looks for replacement for Pantsir air defense systems
Photo: Russian air defense (Russian media)
Russia is adopting new approaches to air defense amid ongoing drone attacks, according to the Serhii FLASH Telegram channel.
Focus on air defense
Amid efforts to counter Ukrainian deep-strike drones, Russia is increasing its focus on air defense missile systems.
The main emphasis is on protecting critical infrastructure and key areas using existing systems.
Shortage of Pantsir systems
Amid the growing strain on air defenses, there is a noted shortage of Pantsir systems, which are insufficient to cover Russia’s entire territory.
This is forcing Moscow to look for alternative solutions and to redistribute available resources.
Emergence of hybrid systems
In this context, so-called hybrid air defense systems are beginning to appear.
In particular, in the city of Oryol, located about 368 km southwest of Moscow, a vehicle-mounted launcher using R-77-1 air-to-air missiles was spotted, indicating attempts to adapt existing weapons for new roles.
What is happening with Russia’s air defense
Ukrainian defense forces continue to disable Russian Pantsir air defense systems actively, showing notable results.
This was stated by the head of the Security Service of Ukraine, Vasyl Malyuk, during a briefing by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
According to him, despite the overall strength of Russia’s air defense, Pantsir systems remain the most effective against Ukrainian long-range drones.
"Since the beginning of 2025 to today, we have destroyed 48% of the enemy’s Pantsir systems. This is a priority set by the President of Ukraine," Malyuk said.
Russian forces used a guided drone against a mobile fire group that was repelling a Shahed drone attack, killing the crew. Defense Ministry adviser Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov said this reflects a tactic in which one drone distracts the unit while another targets personnel.
Meanwhile, France’s Defense Ministry, together with companies Turgis Gaillard and Renault, is working on the development of a strike drone called Chorus.
