In a significant overnight operation, Ukrainian air defense forces successfully intercepted a large-scale drone assault by Russian military forces. Approximately 19 strikes were reported, with most hostile targets neutralized by air defense systems.
The attack, which occurred on March 2, involved 94 drones, including models identified as Shahed, Gerbera, and Italmas, launched from various locations in Russia and Crimea. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that around 70 of these drones were of the Shahed type.
Ukrainian defense capabilities, including aviation, missile defense units, electronic warfare, and mobile fire groups, played a crucial role in repelling the assault. By 8:00 AM, preliminary reports indicated that air defense had either destroyed or suppressed 84 enemy drones across northern, southern, and eastern regions of Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, 10 drones managed to hit four locations, with additional debris from downed drones falling in two areas. The Air Force emphasized that the attack was ongoing, urging citizens to adhere to safety protocols.
Earlier in the night, Russian forces targeted Kryvyi Rih, resulting in damage to a facility and several fires. Additionally, the Ukrainian Naval Forces reported the destruction of one Shahed drone in the southern sector.
Ukrainian air defense forces effectively countered a large-scale drone attack from Russia, intercepting the majority of hostile drones. Despite the successful defense, some drones managed to strike multiple locations, highlighting the ongoing threat from aerial assaults.
