The Defense Forces of Ukraine are actively working to counter russian air attacks. Recently, footage was released showing the rarely seen 2S6 Tunguska self-propelled anti-aircraft system.
A video featuring this system was published by the 1020th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Footage taken from inside the system shows a jet-powered target—presumably a Geran-4 drone—being shot down by its 30-mm cannons.
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From Defense Express we would like to note that Tunguska systems are rarely seen in footage of Ukrainian units in action. However, they continue to be used by Ukrainian units to shoot down aerial threats.
The use of such air defense systems to intercept russian drones was reported in 2024. There is also footage from August 2026 released by Ukraine's General Staff, in which the crew stated that, in addition to Shaheds, they also engage reconnaissance UAVs such as the Orlan.
In both videos, the systems can be seen carrying just three or four 9M311 anti-aircraft missiles each, despite having eight launchers. This may indicate certain limitations in the use of such interceptors, given that they were manufactured exclusively in russia.
However, the Tunguska is equipped with other weapons as well. The system is equipped with two 30-mm anti-aircraft guns with a total ammunition load of 1,936 rounds, allowing for relatively cost-effective interception of drones at ranges of up to four km. They can also shoot down jet-powered targets, a capability currently lacking in Ukraine's air defense.
In other words, despite its Cold War origins, the Tunguska continues to fulfill its mission today, filling an important niche. Currently, Ukraine operates an even older self-propelled air defense system—the German Gepard—which, despite its age, has proven highly effective on the battlefield.
In addition, the Defense Forces of Ukraine have newer systems, such as the Skynex, and are also awaiting the delivery of self-propelled Skyranger 35s mounted on Leopard 1 chassis. These systems can also employ programmable airburst ammunition, making them more effective.
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