Ukraine to launch new branch of Air Force, army chief reveals details
Photo: Oleksandr Syrskyi (facebook.com CinCAFofUkraine)
Along with increasing the number of air defense systems, Ukraine is developing other areas that are effective in combating enemy air attacks, says Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi at a meeting with the media.
“We are already in the process of creating a new branch of the military in our Air Force — unmanned air defense systems,” he said.
Syrskyi added that this refers to domestically and foreign-made interceptor drones, which destroy Shahed drones with high efficiency — 70% or more. Therefore, units equipped with these interceptor drones are being created and expanded, as well as a command that will deal specifically with these drones.
Ukraine is already using them, increasing the number of (radar) stations, expanding their numbers, and training personnel.
Combat helicopters
According to him, other areas are also being developed. Namely, the number of combat helicopters is increasing, which also shows high efficiency in combating drones. Depending on the weather, Ukrainian helicopters sometimes shoot down up to 40% of drones in their areas. So, this area is also being scaled up. These helicopters need to be equipped with special systems that allow them to see the enemy – during the day, at night, in various weather conditions, in thermal imaging and infrared modes.
Light aircraft
Another area of focus is light aircraft equipped with machine guns. These have also proven effective in combating Shahed drones. The purchase of specialized light aircraft for this purpose is currently being assessed.
Ukraine is also continuing to increase the quantity and quality of electronic warfare capabilities.
“Our task is to ensure three-to-fourfold coverage of objects (with electronic warfare means). We are using everything available to increase our radar field and integrating everything into a single system,” Syrskyi said.
The commander-in-chief added that there are also automated control systems. Interception lines are being created. In particular, drones are being intercepted at the first line as soon as they cross the line of combat.
Situation on the front
Over the past day, from September 25 to 26, the enemy lost another 940 personnel on the front. The Armed Forces of Ukraine also destroyed Russian tanks and artillery.
The General Staff confirmed Ukraine's strikes on Russian drone production facilities, whose attacks are intensifying. An attack was also carried out on Russian oil refineries and oil pumping stations.
