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Air Force Named Which Air Defense Means are Effective Against Shahed UAVs

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Photo for illustration / Shahed-136  (russian name - Geran-2) loitering munitions
Photo for illustration / Shahed-136 (russian name - Geran-2) loitering munitions

Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for the Air Force of Ukraine named which Air Defense means are effective against Shahed UAVs

According to him, the most effective for shooting down Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones at night are anti-aircraft missile systems, whereas large-calibre machine guns and small arms can only work effectively in daylight.

He said this on air during the 24/7 national joint newscast on 12 December

Read more: ​How Many Iranian Shahed Kamikaze Drones Were Shot Down During russia’s Attack on Ukraine on December 6-7 Night

"The enemy has been using hostile drones at night. This suggests that they want to avoid their destruction by means that require visual binding to the target. Therefore, at night, those air defence means that have their own radars and radar stations are used. These are, first of all, anti-aircraft missile systems, which are the basis of the entire air shield of Ukraine: Buk-M1, S-300 and others. Also, in particular, the means provided by our partners work effectively for these purposes: Gepard, IRIS-T. However, in case the enemy launches during the day, then large-calibre machine guns and other small arms, and so on, can be used." - said Ignat.

Regarding the Russian tactics, Ihnat noted that in general, it remains unchanged. Taking into account the changing situation in Ukraine’s south, the Russians have made some adjustments: their forces are trying to launch drones from other areas, in particular, the eastern part of the Azov Sea coast.

Ihnat pointed out that, unfortunately, barely everything can be shot down today. Therefore, Ukraine needs further strengthening of its air defence systems.

Read more: Ukraine’s Military Said How Many Missiles And Shahed Drones Already Been Destroyed By the German Gepard