Ukraine’s Counter-Drone Efforts: Mass Production of Interceptors to Address Rising Threat

Ukraine to Deploy ‘Tens of Thousands’ of Interceptors to Counter Shahed Drone Swarms

In a bid to counter the rising threat posed by Iranian-designed Shahed drones, Ukraine is set to deploy “tens of thousands” of interceptor drones, according to Defense Procurement Agency Director Arsen Zhumadilov. This massive production effort aims to outstrip the sheer volume of attack drones being launched by Russia.

As reported, June saw a staggering 5,000+ Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones (including smaller Gerbera and Parodiya types) launched by Russia alone. This unprecedented scale has rendered traditional defense systems like Patriot ineffective in stopping these attacks. The $3.3 million per missile cost of Patriots makes it unfeasible to keep up with the overwhelming numbers.

In contrast, Ukraine’s new initiative will focus on scaling up production of affordable interceptors that can be rapidly deployed and adapted to counter the evolving tactics employed by Russian forces. Wild Hornets’ Sting interceptor drone is one example of such a design, which has already been successfully used in combat operations.

By leveraging private fundraising efforts and seeking potential funding from allied countries, Ukraine aims to meet this unprecedented threat head-on, while also sharing this technology with other nations, as emphasized by President Volodymyr Zelensky during the G7 summit.

Source: www.forbes.com