Russia Targets Kyiv with Drone Terror and Accelerates Ballistic Missile Modernization

In September, Russian forces concentrated drone terror on Kyiv, launching 6,438 Shahed-type drones and decoys, with 86% intercepted. The effectiveness of intercepting jet-powered kamikaze drones declined due to rapid Russian modifications appearing every 2-3 days. Russia used missiles on 22 days in September, but reduced complex ballistic launches while stockpiling them. A new ballistic missile variant, 9M723-2F3, was deployed, following August's 9M723-2, indicating accelerated modernization. Jet drones and ersatz missiles like "Banderol" were prioritized for strikes on Kyiv and data centers. Ukraine's failure to address the Shahed-238 jet drone threat since January 2024 left it unprepared for current attacks. Russia is scaling production in Alabuga, and analysts warn of intensified missile strikes from November through winter, marking the most difficult autumn since 2022.