Newly released information has confirmed that a foreign-supplied Patriot air defense system was responsible for the destruction of several Russian aircraft over Ukrainian territory in May. The Ukrainian Air Force recently revealed that a number of Russian aircraft, including helicopters and fighter jets, were shot down by Patriot systems provided by foreign sources.
According to Col. Yuri Ignat, the Ukrainian Air Force spokesman, the Patriot system was used to destroy three Russian Mi-8 Hip helicopters, a Su-34 Fullback strike fighter, and a Su-35 Flanker-E in Russia’s Bryansk region on May 13. Ignat described the operation as a “brilliant” and “decisive” operation led by the Commander of the Air Force, showcasing the effectiveness of the Patriot SAM units.
Following the events of May 13, more Russian aircraft were also downed by Patriot systems, leading to a change in Russian aerial tactics. Ignat highlighted the important role of Patriot batteries in defending Ukraine, including the downing of Iskander short-range ballistic missiles and the Kinzhal air-launched derivative in and around Kyiv.
The use of Patriot systems in the conflict has sparked interest and debate, with some questioning the ability of the system to engage targets at such long distances. However, the claims made by Ukraine point to the effectiveness of the Patriot system in the ongoing conflict.
The confirmation of the use of Patriot systems in the destruction of Russian aircraft provides a new perspective on the air defense capabilities of Ukraine. The involvement of advanced foreign-supplied weapons in the conflict adds a new dimension to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.