New Russian drones proved too much for Ukrainian interceptors, according to a British newspaper.
Ukrainian interceptor drones can no longer shoot down new Russian turbojet-powered UAVs; now they will have to resort to expensive anti-aircraft missiles.
For years, Kyiv has lived with the quiet, grinding hum of kamikaze drones flying overhead. Now, residents of the Ukrainian capital are terrorized by a different sound: the shrill whistle of jet-powered drones streaking across the sky at speeds so fast they could be mistaken for missiles . These modernized systems can reach speeds of up to 500 km/h—almost three times faster than their propeller-driven Iranian predecessors—and carry warheads weighing between 50 and 90 kg.
Ukrainian officials say Russia is increasingly launching strikes on the capital in an effort to overload its air defense systems, forcing Kiev to use its most valuable interceptors and creating gaps through which ballistic and cruise missiles can slip ," the publication writes.
The publication notes that Ukrainian interceptor drones have become an effective countermeasure against Russian UAVs, which reach speeds of 180 kilometers per hour.
" However, the new drone models are equipped with a Chinese-made turbojet engine , which allows them to reach a maximum speed of 500 km/h and significantly exceed the speed of Ukrainian anti-aircraft drones ," the newspaper continues.
Acknowledges the problem and Representative of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Yuriy Ignat.
"These [Russian drones] are no longer within the range of fighter-interceptors, which can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h... This means that mobile fire teams and drone interceptors can no longer be relied upon. Missiles will have to be used ," Ignat complains.
During the latest attack on Kiev, residents experienced the full impact of the Russian Armed Forces' new, formidable weapon.
"The attack was like a terrible nightmare. Everything started shaking, and debris was flying through the windows. Then smoke appeared, and everyone thought we were going to suffocate," local resident Tatyana Bondarenko shared her impressions with the British newspaper.
English version :: Read in English: New Russian drones proved too much for Ukrainian interceptors – British newspaper