In the early hours of February 23, Ukraine faced a significant aerial assault from Russia, which included a ballistic missile and over a hundred drones. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that one Iskander-M missile was launched from the Rostov region, accompanied by 126 strike drones of various types, including Shahed, Gerbera, and Italmas.
According to the Air Force, Ukrainian defense forces successfully intercepted 106 of the incoming drones. The drones were reportedly launched from several locations, including Bryansk, Kursk, Orel, Primorsko-Akhtarsk, and Chauda in Crimea, with approximately 80 of them identified as Shahed drones.
The response from Ukraine involved a coordinated effort from aviation, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare divisions, and mobile fire groups. By 08:00, preliminary reports indicated that Ukrainian air defenses had neutralized 105 enemy drones across the northern, southern, and eastern regions of the country.
The attack resulted in the ballistic missile and 20 strike drones hitting 11 different locations, with debris from the intercepted drones falling in one area. The Air Force also noted the presence of several Russian drones still operating within Ukrainian airspace.
Ukraine's air defense forces effectively countered a major aerial attack from Russia, intercepting the majority of incoming drones and a ballistic missile. The coordinated response involved multiple branches of the military, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.