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Ukraine's Drone Defense Expertise Boosts European Security

Ukraine's successful drone defense strategies are now being adopted across Europe. But can they keep up with Russia's production pace?

This is a aerial view image of a city with many buildings all over the place and above its sky with...
This is a aerial view image of a city with many buildings all over the place and above its sky with clouds.

Ukraine's Drone Defense Expertise Boosts European Security

Ukraine's experience in defending against large-scale drone attacks has led to collaborative efforts across Europe to enhance their defenses. Poland, following Russian drone incursions, has started learning from Ukraine and training together to improve its drone defense. Meanwhile, Ukraine urges Europe and the US to bolster air defense systems to match Russia's drone production pace.

Countering mass drone attacks requires a diverse range of defenses. Ukraine, with extensive experience, uses mobile troops with machine guns, helicopters, and systems like the German-supplied Gepard and Skynex. Poland has started using F-16 and F-35 jets to intercept drones. European nations have initiated collaborative initiatives called the 'EU drone wall' to strengthen defenses, though they lag behind Ukraine and Russia in drone technology and production capacity. Israel has provided Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, bolstering its missile and drone interception capabilities.

Each Shahed drone can cause significant damage, targeting residential buildings, energy infrastructure, and personal property. Ukraine, ready to share its expertise, is willing to export its cutting-edge systems to help partners prepare for future drone warfare. However, the biggest challenge is protecting large areas and multiple cities, requiring a continuous, scalable defense system. On September 10, Russia launched more than 20 drones toward Poland, with no casualties. Shooting down just four drones required Poland to engage additional NATO forces and use expensive missiles, costing over $1.2 million in total.

Ukraine's layered defense system has proven effective, intercepting 80-95% of drones on most days. However, a single attack of 700 drones poses a serious threat, as seen in Ukraine's experience. To stay ahead, Ukraine urges Europe and the US to provide more air defense systems and missiles, matching Russia's production pace of over 300 Shaheds per day.

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