Tue, 16 Jun 2026 Kyiv 16:02Berlin 15:02London 14:02 UKR / DE / EN

Ukraine shoots down five of six Russian Zircon missiles

Ukrainian forces shot down five of six Zircon hypersonic missiles during a Russian attack, according to military analyst Oleksandr Musiienko. He stressed that Patriot systems are key to intercepting these weapons.

Ukraine shoots down five of six Russian Zircon missiles
Photo: 24tv.ua

During the latest Russian attack on Ukraine, Ukrainian defense forces shot down five of six Zircon hypersonic missiles. This was reported by 24tv, citing military analyst Oleksandr Musiienko. He emphasized that Ukrainian air defense can effectively intercept these weapons, provided partners regularly supply Patriot systems.

According to Musiienko, many myths surround Russian Zircon missiles, but the actual combat record differs significantly from Russian propaganda. As early as 2024, Russian troops fired Zircon missiles from occupied Crimea at Kyiv — all were shot down then as well. “As long as we have Patriot, we have almost always intercepted Zircon. The issue is Patriot,” Musiienko said.

Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat noted the peculiarity of the attack on June 15, 2026: Russia combined various aerial attack means to overwhelm Ukrainian air defense. The critical factor remains a sufficient number of PAC-3 systems and interceptor missiles.

Source: 24tv.ua