Ukraine's Air Force on intercepting jet-powered Shahed drones

Ukraine cannot yet rely on interceptor drones as a primary means of downing Russian jet-powered Shahed drones, instead using aviation, surface-to-air missile systems, and other air defense assets. Spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat said these tools are effective against high-altitude, high-speed targets. Ihnat noted that conventional interceptor drones have successfully destroyed some jet-powered drones, particularly slower ones at suitable altitudes, with confirmed video evidence. However, their share of successful interceptions remains small, and Ukraine is developing new jet-powered interceptors currently undergoing testing and scaling. Ukrainian manufacturers are working on innovative jet-powered interceptor drones to counter evolving threats, though Ihnat stressed that against ballistic missiles, Patriot systems remain the only solution. Russia has recently increased use of jet-powered drones, with at least four Ukrainian interceptor types undergoing combat trials.