The Ukrainian Air Force pilot, known by the callsign Denfix, has intercepted and destroyed russian Shahed-type drone during a nighttime mission. The drone was neutralized with an air-to-air missile launched from the MiG-29 fighter jet.
The video of the interception was published by the West Air Command of the Ukrainian Air Force. It shows a precise engagement that took place under limited visibility conditions, typical of nighttime drone operations.
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Denfix is a pilot with the Sevastopol Tactical Aviation Brigade, operating the MiG-29 front-line multirole fighter. Despite its age, the aircraft continues to play a role in Ukraine’s layered air defense, particularly against cruise missiles and UAVs.
According to the Air Force, tactical aviation is deployed when necessary to counter enemy missile and drone strikes. In such cases, aircraft are used to supplement ground-based air defense systems, especially during periods of high threat activity.
Denfix has recorded more than 20 aerial kills, including both cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. This highlights the continuing reliance on manned aviation in Ukraine’s integrated air defense approach.
The Shahed drones, frequently used by russian forces, pose a consistent threat due to their range and ability to operate in swarms. While ground-based systems are the primary countermeasure, fighter jets remain an important option when fast interception is required.
As Defense Express previously reported, in the Pokrovsk sector, Ukrainian Special Operations Forces from the 144th Center, in cooperation with UAV operators, FPV drone teams, mortar crews, and grenade launcher units, carried out a joint operation that resulted in the destruction of russian assault group. The group had previously disrupted a unit rotation, killing one Ukrainian servicemember and injuring another.
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