Drones are now too fast: Ukraine prepares a new way to destroy them

Russia is increasing the speed of its attack drones, making it harder for Ukrainian interceptor drones to counter them. The proposed solution: domestic production of small surface-to-air missiles and the development of a multi-tiered air defense system.

This was stated by electronic warfare specialist Anatolii Khrapchynskyi on Ukrainian Radio.

According to Khrapchynskyi, Russia is improving its «Geranium-2» drone attacks and preparing to use high-speed versions on a mass scale, reducing the effectiveness of intercepting drones.

«Our drones may become ineffective if the enemy systematically increases speed, ” he said.

Khrapchynskyi urges a focus on developing domestic small missile systems capable of targeting drones at medium and high altitudes. Such missiles, he noted, are relatively inexpensive — up to $10,000 per unit — but require strategic planning and investment.

«Small missiles aren’t high-cost weapons. But without a systemic approach, we risk falling behind an enemy already implementing AI and visual navigation, ” the expert emphasized.

He also explained that the enemy is adapting to Ukraine’s mobile fire groups that shoot down Shahed drones at low altitudes. In response, Russia is flying drones higher and enhancing their autonomy using visual navigation and mobile communications.

In Khrapchynskyi’s view, effective defense is only possible through a layered system that combines:

• electronic warfare tools,

• interceptor drones,

• guns and conventional air defense systems,

• as well as aviation, including helicopters and F-16s.

«A comprehensive approach makes it impossible for the enemy to act freely, as it complicates their decision-making on where to advance, ” Khrapchynskyi added.

He also stressed the importance of striking drone launch sites, noting that Ukraine is already developing ballistic and cruise weapons in this area.