Zelenskyy confirms Russia's jet-powered Shahed was shot down by new interceptor
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (facebook.com_zelenskyy.official)
Ukraine has successfully tested new interceptors against jet-powered Shahed drones and is preparing to strengthen its military positions along key areas of the front, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Interceptor tests
During a briefing by Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Mykhailo Drapatyi, another positive result from the use of Ukrainian-developed systems was highlighted.
"Importantly, there is another positive result from testing interceptors against jet-powered “shaheds” – a successful shoot-down," the president said.
He thanked the developers and Ukrainian soldiers and stressed that production of such systems would be scaled up.
According to the head of state, Ukraine is gradually finding ways to counter Russian threats, developing its own means of putting pressure on the enemy and preparing new active and long-range operations.
Frontline situation and recognition of Ukrainian troops
Zelenskyy also highlighted the work of units carrying out combat missions on the front line:
- Donetsk region — the situation is showing the dynamics that Ukraine’s Armed Forces need;
- Kupiansk direction — Ukrainian forces are preparing reinforcements;
- Oleksandrivka direction — Ukrainian forces continue systematically destroying the enemy positions.
"The 82nd and 95th Separate Air Assault Brigades deserve our special gratitude for their results over these past days. We are proud of you, warriors!" the president said.
Russian attacks and the state of Ukraine’s air force
Russian forces continue to launch massive air strikes against Ukraine.
During one of the latest overnight attacks, Russian forces launched various types of missiles and drones. Ukrainian air defenses neutralized 131 enemy targets.
At the same time, Ukraine’s air defense forces and military aviation are operating with limited resources.
According to one pilot, Ukrainian F-16s are being forced to conserve ammunition and, during some missions, shoot down aerial targets using their onboard cannons because of a shortage of missiles.
