2024-01-01 20:14:01
Ukrainian Air Defense System Shoots Down 15 Russian Missiles
In a recent announcement on national television, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yuri Ikhnat revealed that the Patriot air defense systems have successfully intercepted and shot down 15 Russian Kinchel missiles since their activation in May.
“The countdown started from the successful interception of the first Kintzhal missile on May 4,” Ikhnat stated, emphasizing the effectiveness of the Patriot system.
Ukraine received its first two Patriot systems from the United States and Germany in April, marking a significant improvement in their air defense capabilities. The Patriot system is viewed as one of the best in the world, enabling Ukraine to shoot down ballistic missiles and reduce the risk of infrastructure destruction and civilian casualties during Russian attacks.
Despite the success of the Patriot system, Ikhnat emphasized the need for more effective air defense systems to protect the country, stating, “We have few batteries and they are not enough.”
In light of the escalating conflict, Germany has pledged to provide Ukraine with an additional Patriot system to help deal with an expected increase in Russian attacks during the winter months.
The Kintzhal missile, unveiled by Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2018, is an air-launched hypersonic ballistic missile capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads. It entered service in December 2017 and is capable of penetrating air defense systems to hit fixed and moving targets with high precision.
The successful interception of 15 Kintzhal missiles demonstrates Ukraine’s growing capabilities in defending against Russian aggression and marks a significant milestone in their ongoing conflict.
Photo credit: AITELLY
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