In the early hours of June 18, Russian forces conducted a significant aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying seven ballistic missiles and 239 strike drones. Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted the majority of these threats, although some managed to reach their targets.
The attack involved the use of “Iskander-M” ballistic missiles and S-400 systems, launched from the Voronezh, Bryansk, and Kursk regions. The drones employed included models such as Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and imitation drones like Parodiya, originating from various locations including Kursk, Oryol, Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia, as well as from the temporarily occupied territories of Crimea and Donetsk.
Ukrainian defense forces, including aviation, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare divisions, and mobile fire groups, engaged in repelling the assault. As of 08:00, preliminary reports indicated that air defense had successfully neutralized 216 aerial threats, comprising four ballistic missiles and 212 drones of various types across northern, southern, and eastern Ukraine.
Despite these defenses, two ballistic missiles and 26 strike drones struck nine locations, with debris falling in seven areas. Further details regarding one additional ballistic missile are being confirmed.
The Ukrainian Air Force has issued a warning, stating, “The attack is ongoing, and hostile drones remain in the airspace. Please adhere to safety regulations.”
A coordinated missile and drone attack by Russian forces targeted Ukraine, prompting a robust response from Ukrainian air defense. While many threats were neutralized, some missiles and drones successfully impacted various locations.