Russian air defence intercepts, shoots down 30 Ukrainian drones overnight

Russian air defence forces successfully intercepted and destroyed 30 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) of the Ukrainian Armed Forces during the night from 00:20 to 05:40, the Russian Ministry of Defence announced on its Telegram.

Nine drones were shot down over Rostov Oblast, eight over the Republic of Crimea, six over Saratov Oblast, five over Bryansk Oblast, and one each over Belgorod and Volgograd Oblasts.

This follows a previous night, August between 6 and 7, when Russian air defence thwarted an attack involving 82 UAVs, 31 of which were destroyed or intercepted over the waters of the Sea of Azov.

Drone warfare has become a central feature of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian forces have increasingly deployed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to conduct surveillance and strike Russian military positions deep within contested and Russian-held territories. 

These drone attacks target critical infrastructure, command centres, and supply lines, aiming to disrupt Russian operations.

In response, Russia has significantly enhanced its air defence capabilities, deploying a range of surface-to-air missile systems and electronic countermeasures to detect, intercept, and neutralise Ukrainian UAVs. 

The effectiveness of Russian air defences has been demonstrated in recent nights, with dozens of Ukrainian drones shot down or intercepted across multiple Russian regions.

This surge in drone engagements highlights the escalating intensity of the conflict, as well as the evolving tactics on both sides. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation remain stalled, with no immediate resolution in sight.

By Aghakazim Guliyev