Ukraine's Air Force explains which means of air defence are effective against Iranian-made Shahed UAVs

The most effective for shooting down Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones at night are anti-aircraft missile systems, whereas large-calibre machine guns and small arms can only work effectively in daylight.

Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for the Air Force, on air during the 24/7 national joint newscast on 12 December

Quote: "[Recently – ed.] the enemy has been using hostile drones at night. This suggests that they want to avoid their destruction by means that require visual binding to the target.

Therefore, at night, those air defence means that have their own radars and radar stations are used.

These are, first of all, anti-aircraft missile systems, which are the basis of the entire air shield [of Ukraine – ed.]: Buk-M1, S-300 and others. Also, in particular, the means provided by our partners work effectively for these purposes: Gepard, IRIS-T [anti-aircraft systems] ...

However, in case the enemy launches [kamikaze drones – ed.] during the day, then large-calibre machine guns and other small arms, and so on, can be used."

Details: Regarding the Russian tactics, Ihnat noted that in general, it remains unchanged. Taking into account the changing situation in Ukraine’s south, the Russians have made some adjustments: their forces are trying to launch drones from other areas, in particular, the eastern part of the Azov Sea coast.

Ihnat pointed out that, unfortunately, barely everything can be shot down today. Therefore, Ukraine needs further strengthening of its air defence systems.

See also: Ukrainian Air Force spells out if weather affects Iranian-made drones

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