In the early hours of March 23, Ukraine faced a significant aerial assault involving 251 drones launched by Russia. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 234 of these drones were successfully intercepted by their air defense systems.
The drones were reportedly launched from several locations, including Bryansk, Oryol, Kursk, and other regions within Russia, as well as from Crimea. Approximately 150 of these drones were identified as Shahed models, which are often used in such attacks.
The Ukrainian defense employed a combination of aviation, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare units, and mobile fire groups to counter the assault. According to preliminary data released by the Ukrainian Air Force, by 8:00 AM, air defense forces had neutralized 234 enemy drones. The report also noted that 17 drones struck 11 different locations, with debris from downed drones landing in eight areas.
As the attack unfolded, the Ukrainian Air Force indicated that several Russian drones remained active in the airspace, suggesting that the assault was ongoing.
On March 23, Ukraine's air defense systems intercepted a large-scale drone attack from Russia, neutralizing the majority of the 251 drones launched. The operation highlighted the ongoing aerial threats faced by Ukraine amid the conflict.