Ukraine tests jet-powered interceptor capable of exceeding 600 km/h

Ukraine's first jet-powered interceptor drones designed to counter jet-powered Shahed drones are undergoing combat testing.

Source: former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov after visiting a facility producing the drones

Details: "The team was among the first in Ukraine to develop a jet-powered interceptor drone which, thanks to its jet engine, can reach speeds of more than 600 km/h. The system is now undergoing combat testing," Fedorov said.

According to Fedorov, the results of the interceptor's testing and its first confirmed shoot-downs are now awaited.

He also noted that several Ukrainian manufacturers have solutions designed to counter jet-powered drones.

"We are now seeing a trend: the Russians are gradually replacing regular Shahed drones with jet-powered ones. This represents a change in the strategy of aerial warfare. Our response must be swift so that we can continue to beat Russia in every technological cycle," he said.

Fedorov said that last year, the Defence Ministry began a coordinated effort to develop interceptor drones by opening up the market, conducting combat tests and increasing procurement. He noted that Ukraine now has one of the world's most advanced short-range air defence systems, and that its experience is being studied by other armed forces.

"The task now is to put in ten times more effort to counter the threat of jet-powered drones as quickly as possible," Fedorov stressed.

He reiterated that over the past year, the Defence Ministry team has supported manufacturers developing solutions to counter jet-powered drones through grants provided via Brave1, Ukraine's defence technology cluster, as well as by assessing their systems and assisting with testing.

Background: It was reported that Ukraine's Defence Ministry had officially approved the TAF Kolibri-i10 interceptor, developed by TAF Industries, for use by Ukraine's defence forces. The drone can reach speeds of more than 200 km/h, has a range of up to 25 km, can remain airborne for more than 20 minutes and operate at altitudes of up to 3,000 m.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon to help us keep reporting!