The Air Force has exposed Russia's plans to make suicide drones even more dangerous
The proportion of jet drones in enemy attacks on Ukraine could rise to 80%, and their speed could increase to 800–900 km/h in the future.
Since July, Russia has begun to use jet-powered drones more actively; they currently account for about 40% of all attack drones, and in some areas, up to 60%. Currently, their speed is about 600 km/h, and although faster drones have not yet been detected, a further increase in speed will reduce flight time, creating additional challenges for Ukraine’s air defense.
This was stated during a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada’s Temporary Investigative Commission by Colonel Yuriy Cherevashenko, deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, according to “Glavkom.”
The Ukrainian Air Force is currently about 75% staffed with drone pilots; however, the main bottleneck in air defense today lies in technological solutions, not a shortage of personnel.
Ukraine is testing two new systems simultaneously to counter Russian jet-powered drones. These are the Ukrainian-made “Nika” small missile and the SPYS interceptor, which is being developed jointly with Germany. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that tests of the SPYS have already yielded positive results.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and presented him with a list of weapons needed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Among the requests are ammunition for F-16 fighter jets, as well as missiles for the IRIS-T and Patriot air defense systems. The parties also discussed the threat posed by jet drones and ballistic missiles, and how partners can help Ukraine strengthen its air defenses.
