Ukrainian air defenses down 154 drones - Air Force shows combat footage
Photo: air defense forces in western Ukraine repelled a massive drone attack (Getty Images)
Air defense forces in western Ukraine repelled a massive drone attack. Overall, Ukrainian defenders destroyed more than 150 enemy drones within their area of responsibility, according to the West Air Command of the Ukrainian Air Force.
Results of combat operations
The military released footage showing combat operations during the repelling of the massive strike on western Ukraine on May 13.
Mobile fire groups, aviation units, anti-aircraft missile forces, electronic warfare units, and drone crews were all involved in intercepting the aerial targets.
According to the command, the units managed to destroy 154 drones of various types. Air defense forces worked in coordination to protect critical infrastructure and civilians in Ukraine’s western regions.
Air Force releases footage of air defenses intercepting 154 drones in western #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/ILYTjk8UaP
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) May 14, 2026
Russian attacks and strengthening air defenses
On the night of May 14, Russia launched a combined attack on Ukraine using hundreds of drones and various types of missiles. Kyiv was the primary target.
Commenting on the aftermath, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the launch of more than 1,560 drones within 24 hours clearly demonstrated the Kremlin’s unwillingness to end the war.
Amid the escalation of attacks, the United Kingdom officially confirmed that it would accelerate deliveries of air defense systems and anti-drone equipment to Ukraine as much as possible.
At the same time, Ukraine is working on strengthening its air defenses at the strategic level. Zelenskyy held a special meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, focused on creating a European anti-ballistic coalition and introducing new defense measures under the PURL program before the start of summer.
