Ukraine is working on developing low-cost interceptor missiles to counter the growing threat from Russian Shahed drones. According to the Kyivpost, several of these systems are already in the testing phase. The program was launched on the president’s orders and aims to produce affordable air defense solutions on a large scale.
Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov told journalists during a briefing: “We have already identified solutions that are close to being combat-ready and have begun testing.” Ukraine wants to ramp up production quickly and build up stockpiles by autumn and winter, when Russian attacks are expected to intensify.
The new interceptor missiles are also being developed with future threats in mind, including faster jet-powered variants of the Shahed drones. “We want to reduce the cost of interceptor missiles and expand production to be prepared for the emergence of jet-powered Shaheds,” Fedorov said. This will help protect critical infrastructure.
Ukraine’s current air defense systems can intercept most drones, according to official figures, but the increasing number of Russian missile and drone strikes requires further reinforcement. Fedorov said Ukraine is awarding grants, scaling up production, and rehiring teams to accelerate development.
Source: www.kyivpost.com
