In March, the number of combat sorties by interceptor drones and the number of destroyed Russian targets increased by almost 55% compared to February, General Oleksandr Syrskyi reported on Facebook following a working meeting on countering Russian drones.
“We are drawing conclusions from the recent massive attacks by enemy Shahed drones. Russian forces are changing their tactics — we are adapting our actions accordingly and developing new effective methods to counter strike UAVs,” the Commander-in-Chief emphasized.
According to him, the number of interceptor drone crews is increasing, the training of servicemen is being strengthened, and these and other issues were discussed during the working meeting on counter-drone measures.
To enhance the protection of Ukrainian cities, towns, and critical facilities, organizational changes are also being implemented.
In March, the Air Defense UAV Command was reorganized into the Command of Direct Air Defense Forces. This command operates as part of the Ukrainian Air Forces and is responsible for the development and deployment of “small air defense,” the modernization of equipment, and personnel training. Currently, the structure is acquiring operational capabilities and receiving designated forces and resources, Syrskyi noted.
As reported by the Commander-in-Chief, in March the number of combat sorties by interceptor drones and the number of destroyed targets increased by almost 55% compared to February.
Since the beginning of spring, interceptor drones have already destroyed over 2,300 Russian aerial targets.
“The highest effectiveness is demonstrated by drones of Ukrainian production. We are ready to share this experience with international partners. At the same time, we need to further increase the number of interceptor drones, particularly those with automatic guidance systems. Russian forces do not stop their attacks — on the contrary, they are increasing production, modernizing drones, and improving their use,” Syrskyi stressed.
He reported that since the beginning of March, helicopters have destroyed 379 Russian strike drones. Anti-aircraft missile troops, mobile fire groups, and separate anti-aircraft machine-gun battalions are also working effectively against targets.
Syrskyi noted that he received a report on the implementation of the anti-drone protection project for key administrative centers in the regions.
“Special attention is being given to the implementation of artificial intelligence and the increase of automation in the use of air defense systems — both for interceptor drones and for aviation and ground fire systems,” the General stated.
According to him,
“Ahead are new complex challenges. We are holding the line and preparing to repel the next attacks.”
