Ukraine's new weapon against Russia's fastest drones is already in combat
Drone interceptor (photo: mod_gov_ua)
Ukraine is testing its own interceptors for jet-powered drones, and some combat units are already using them, according to Ihor Klymenko, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council.
"New Ukrainian interceptors are already undergoing active testing, and some combat units are using them in practice," Klymenko wrote.
According to him, work is underway with manufacturers to improve the effectiveness of the interceptors and move toward mass production.
During the latest meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff, the development, testing, production, and supply of Ukrainian systems to counter high-speed aerial threats were discussed in detail. The first steps toward scaling up production were also identified.
How many air raid alerts were recorded in Kyiv
For the past month, the capital has been under almost continuous attack by Russian jet-powered drones. Since August 27, Kyiv has recorded 235 air raid alerts with a total duration of 261 hours — more than 10 days.
"Russia is increasing its air attacks. Our challenge is to increase our capabilities to counter them," the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council wrote.
According to him, this is a new challenge for Ukrainian air defense. Responding to it requires rapid technical solutions and mass production of interception systems.
What the National Security and Defense Council is doing
The National Security and Defense Council is coordinating the work of government agencies, the military, and manufacturers — from technical solutions to production and supply.
"It is important to quickly resolve problematic issues, increase capabilities, and continuously improve interceptors in response to the enemy's new tactics and technologies," Klymenko stressed.
At the same time, work is underway with international partners on new air defense packages and additional solutions to counter aerial threats. Another area is sanctions pressure, which is intended to limit Russia's ability to produce new means of terror.
Klymenko thanked Ukrainian manufacturers who work on these solutions every day, as well as everyone defending Ukraine's skies.
"We are working to ensure that Ukraine has enough systems to effectively protect people and infrastructure," he added.
On September 28, Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhenii Khmara called for funding interceptors for jet-powered Shahed drones during a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council.
According to him, the funds are needed this fall so that manufacturers have time to purchase components and produce the drones.
Meanwhile, operators from a Separate Artillery Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine downed a jet-powered Geran-4 for the first time using a General Cherry Bullet interceptor drone.
According to Ukraine's Defense Intelligence, this Geran has a turbojet engine and can reach speeds of up to 500 km/h.
