Ukraine's air defenses strained by Russia's jet-powered drone attacks

Russia's increased use of jet-powered drones is overwhelming Ukraine's air defenses, with intercept rates dropping to about 60% and causing significant civilian casualties and economic disruption. These new drones fly at higher altitudes and speeds than older propeller models, giving Ukrainian mobile defense crews only seconds to react. Russia launched over 2,100 such drones in the first three weeks of September, killing 288 people, and has expanded attacks to round-the-clock operations targeting economic infrastructure. Ukraine is developing countermeasures but faces a $27 billion defense funding shortfall this year. Kyiv officials express confidence in resolving the drone threat short-term, though solutions depend on securing financial resources from international partners.