The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has released a report detailing the operations of the country’s air defense systems for June. The report indicates that during mass attacks last month, Russia launched nearly 6,000 drones and missiles against Ukraine, of which approximately 5,300 were successfully intercepted.
The ministry noted that the interception rate for drones like the Shahed, Gerbera, and Italmas reached 90%, and a similar success rate was reported for cruise missiles including Kalibr, Iskander-K, and X-101. However, the interception of ballistic missiles such as Iskander, Kinzhal, and 48N6DM was significantly lower, with only 40% success during the period in question.
“The biggest challenge remains ballistic missiles. Their interception requires a substantial number of PAC-3 missiles for the Patriot missile systems,” the Defense Ministry emphasized.
The ministry also highlighted ongoing collaboration with international partners to enhance air defense capabilities and urged them to provide available interceptor missiles to protect Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.
Context
- During a mass attack on July 6, the Ukrainian air defense forces were unable to intercept any ballistic missiles due to a shortage of Patriot missiles. Defense advisor Serhiy Beskrestnov mentioned that there is a global shortage of Patriot missiles, leaving Ukraine with minimal resources to intercept ballistic threats.
- On July 9, following the NATO summit in Ankara, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine would receive additional Patriot missiles from the United States and European allies in the coming days.
