Russia launches almost 80 drones on Ukraine overnight

Russia launched a large-scale drone assault on Ukraine, deploying 79 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from three directions on the night of July 11.

According to the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), up to 60 of the drones were Shahed-type UAVs, launched from the Russian cities of Kursk, Millerovo, and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

Ukrainian air defence forces mounted a robust response, involving anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare (EW) and drone system units, and mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defence Forces. By 1 p.m., air defences had successfully shot down 44 Shahed drones across northern, southern, eastern, and central Ukraine. An additional 16 drones were neutralized or suppressed through electronic warfare measures.

Despite the strong defensive efforts, 19 drones struck targets in eight different locations, while debris and downed drones fell in three other areas. 

By Sabina Mammadli