Ukraine ready to train Europe to shoot down drones, air force names possible cities
Photo: Yurii Ihnat, head of communications department for the Ukrainian Air Force Command (armyinform.com.ua)
Ukraine is ready to share its experience with European partners on how to shoot down Russian drones effectively. Training could take place, for example, in Lviv or Krakow, said Yurii Ihnat, head of the communications department for the Ukrainian Air Force Command.
Ihnat commented on reports that Russian Gerbera drones recently entered Polish airspace, allegedly without warheads, and were intercepted by Polish aviation.
"The type of missiles used to shoot them down is their business. They don’t have as much experience as Ukraine. Gerberas are not an easy target, especially for fighter jets. We recently saw another case with a Shahed or Gerbera entering Romanian airspace — that’s for the Romanian side to determine. But for over 40 minutes, two fighter jets couldn’t do anything. They tried, but lost a lot of time," he said.
According to Ihnat, Ukraine is ready to provide its specialists to train European allies in drone interception, regardless of the location, for example, in Lviv or Krakow.
He added that in Ukraine, during Russian air attacks, various means are used depending on the situation — mobile fire groups, aviation, interceptor drones, and electronic warfare.
Each operation depends on the circumstances, with the Air Force commander directing the mission and specific individuals responsible for each sector. The system works as a unified mechanism, ensuring rational use of resources depending on the conditions.
Ihnat emphasized the evolution of Ukraine’s Defense Forces:
"We have achieved these results. This experience came at a high price — we lost many defenders and civilians, much equipment was destroyed, and homes and enterprises were ruined. This experience was gained through blood. Partners now have a unique opportunity to see, understand, and go through this training. Of course, there were mistakes — it’s impossible to account for everything when the enemy attacks with advanced tools. It's necessary to try and apply innovative methods," he said.
Ukraine to train Polish military in drone defense
Following the Russian drone attacks on eastern Poland on September 10, foreign ministers of the Lublin Triangle countries called on partners to urgently strengthen Ukraine’s air defense amid the escalation of the war and regional tensions.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is open to cooperation to shoot down all types of drones.
Polish Defense Ministry officials reported that drone interception training for Ukrainian and Polish specialists is planned to take place in Poland. The parties are currently coordinating the format and areas of cooperation.
Recently, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister said that on September 18, a delegation of Polish military personnel will arrive in Ukraine to train with Ukrainian forces in shooting down Russian drones.
At the same time, President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready to share its experience in intercepting enemy drones with NATO and contribute to joint defense.
