Russia Steps Up Aerial Bombardment of Ukraine
Russian forces have increased their attack on Ukraine with a big surge in missiles and drones. According to Ukrainian data, over 6,000 explosive drones and missiles were fired at Ukraine in September, October, and November.
This is much more than last year. In fact, the number of missiles and drones has risen by four times compared to the same period last year. On average, Russia now fires about 1,343 missiles and drones per month. Just a few months ago, this number was only around 622.
Russia’s goal is to wear down Ukraine’s air defense systems with these attacks. Major Anton Yanovych, commander of Ukraine’s 164th Radiotechnical Brigade, said that the Russians are trying to exhaust their defenses.
To achieve this, Russia has been using drones and missiles from other countries. They have a new factory in Tatarstan that can make 1,200 drones per month. And they have also been using Iranian–designed Shahed drones, which now make up about 92% of the long-range aerial attacks on Ukraine.
However, Ukraine is fighting back. Their electronic warfare techniques have allowed them to intercept nearly 93% of the drones fired at them in October. But Ukrainian officials are still calling for more advanced air defense systems to protect their country from these attacks.