Ukraine is already downing Russian jet drones with its own technology — Zelenskyy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: Getty Images)
Ukraine has already tested several systems designed to counter jet-powered Shahed drones in real combat. Now the authorities want to integrate them into a systematic defense system, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The head of state said that during a meeting, Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatyi presented reports.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukrainian specialists already have several systems designed to counter jet-powered Shahed drones that have proven effective in real-world use.
He noted that Ukrainian developers, arms manufacturers, engineers, and other experts are working around the clock to develop such systems.
"There are already several systems that have proven their effectiveness through real-world use and the downing of jet-powered Shahed drones," the president emphasized.
Now, he said, the main task is to ensure the systematic deployment of these systems, their consistent effectiveness in intercepting drones, and the necessary volumes for mass production.
Ukraine readies new long-range operations
Zelenskyy also said he had approved new long-range operations in response to Russian strikes.
"We are preparing to expand our long-range capabilities," the head of state said.
The meeting also addressed the situation in Ukraine's Medical Forces. Following a change in leadership, officials are preparing decisions to update management approaches and the system for responding to challenges.
Zelenskyy stressed the need to expand successful practices already used by combat brigades and effective patronage services.
He said scaling up the successful experience of Ukraine's Defense Forces should be a priority for commanders at all levels.
Foreign volunteers in Defense Forces
Another issue was updating the regulatory framework and approaches to recruiting foreign volunteers to serve in Ukrainian Defense Forces.
Zelenskyy said every foreigner who wants to help defend Ukraine's independence should have the opportunity to do so. The president also thanked foreign volunteers already defending Ukraine.
Earlier, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said two Ukrainian companies had successfully conducted combat tests of new interceptor drones. One of them shot down a Russian jet-powered Shahed.
The president also shared a video showing the destruction of a Russian jet-powered Shahed by a Ukrainian interceptor drone.
