Image: Ukraine MoD ©
Ukraine’s air defence forces intercepted more than 5,300 drones and missiles in July, according to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as Russia escalated its long-range strikes on the country.
Record Interception Numbers
Russian forces launched over 9,000 strike drones and missiles during the month, excluding reconnaissance UAVs. Ukrainian defenders shot down or suppressed 5,142 strike drones, including Shahed, Gerbera and Italmas types, along with 216 missiles of various classes. Forces also neutralised more than 48,000 tactical-level drones. Aviation units, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare teams and mobile fire groups all contributed to the results.
Three Major Night Attacks
Russia mounted its largest assault of the month on the night of 2 July, deploying four Zircon anti-ship missiles, 24 Iskander-M and S-400 ballistic missiles, 34 Kh-101 cruise missiles and roughly 500 drones. Ukrainian forces intercepted 476 drones and 44 of 46 cruise and guided air-launched missiles, but stopped just four of 28 ballistic missiles.
A similarly intense attack followed on 6 July, involving 68 missiles and over 350 drones. Defenders intercepted 326 UAVs and 37 of 39 cruise missiles, though none of the ballistic missiles were stopped. A third major strike on 30 July saw 74 missiles and more than 280 drones launched, with Ukraine intercepting 265 UAVs, 54 cruise missiles and one ballistic missile.
Ballistic Defence Remains the Priority
Ballistic missiles continue to pose the greatest challenge for Ukraine’s air defence network. The Ministry of Defence is working with international partners to secure additional systems and interceptor missiles. Ukraine and the United Kingdom have discussed strengthening air defence capabilities and advancing anti-ballistic projects. Kyiv is also seeking Meteor missiles for its Gripen fleet to counter Russian aircraft carrying guided bombs, over 8,000 of which were used in July.
According to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, expanding layered air defence remains a central priority as attacks intensify.
Learn more on the Ukrainian MoD website














