Massive drone attack on Kyiv: Ihnat on Russia’s tactics and new challenges for air defense

During the air raid this night, Russia employed a tactic of launching a massive number of «Shahed» drones on Kyiv from various directions and at different altitudes. This significantly complicated the work of Ukrainian air defenses.

Head of the Communications Department of the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Yurii Ihnat said this on the air of the telethon.

According to him, enemy UAVs attacked the capital simultaneously from multiple directions, using both ultra-low and higher altitude echelons. This approach forces Ukrainian air defenses to operate with maximum mobility and coordination.

«They come from different directions, at different altitudes — both ultra-low and higher up, attacking from various sides, which, of course, complicates the work of air defenses,» Ihnat explained.

Mobile fire groups and interceptor drones, currently used by the Air Force as anti-aircraft systems, were deployed to shoot down the «Shaheds.» Light aircraft were also utilized.

A particular threat is posed by reconnaissance drones, which Russia launches deep into Ukrainian territory. These are difficult to detect as they are designed to be stealthy and capable of transmitting information in real time. Ihnat noted that the enemy may use a combination of drones, including relay drones to transmit signals.

«Real-time data transmission can cause a lot of harm, coordinating artillery or ballistic operations. That’s why combating UAVs is a constant, intense, and multifaceted effort,» the Air Force representative emphasized.

Additionally, according to Ihnat, during the latest attack, radar systems detected even air balloons, which Russia may use as a means of surveillance or to distract air defenses.

Ukrainian defense forces continue to improve their drone countermeasures and adapt to new challenges posed daily by the enemy, who is constantly upgrading their assets of attack.