Russia launches ballistic missiles,138 drones on Ukraine overnight

Russia carried a large-scale air assault overnight on November 12–13, launching a combination of ballistic missiles and more than a hundred attack drones across Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.

The large-scale attack began around 7 p.m. local time on November 12. Russian forces launched one Iskander-M ballistic missile from Russian-occupied Crimea, along with 138 strike drones of various types — including Shahed and Gerbera models, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media. 

The attacks originated from multiple directions, including Millerovo, Oryol, and Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia, as well as Chauda and Gvardeyskoye in occupied Crimea. Approximately 90 of the drones used were Iranian-designed Shaheds, a staple of Russia’s ongoing campaign targeting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

Ukraine’s air defence network — comprising fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare systems, and mobile fire groups — engaged the waves of drones and missiles throughout the night.

By 10:30 a.m. on November 13, Ukrainian forces had intercepted or neutralised 102 drones over the country’s northern, eastern, and southern regions, according to preliminary data from the Air Force.

Despite the extensive air defence effort, at least 36 drones managed to hit 10 locations across Ukraine. Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage and casualties.

By Sabina Mammadli