In the early hours of June 9, Ukraine faced a significant assault from Russia, which involved the launch of two guided aviation missiles and 166 strike drones. Ukrainian Air Force reported that their air defense systems successfully neutralized 146 of these drones.
The attack originated from various locations within Russia, including Voronezh, and utilized a range of drone types such as Shahed, Gerbera, Italmas, and loitering munitions known as ‘Banderolet.’ Additionally, imitation drones labeled ‘Parodiya’ were deployed from regions including Oryol, Kursk, Bryansk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk, and Millerovo, as well as from temporarily occupied territories in Donetsk and Crimea.
Ukrainian defense forces employed a combination of aviation, anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare units, and mobile fire groups to counter the onslaught. According to preliminary data released by the Air Force, by 08:00, they had intercepted or suppressed 146 enemy drones, including those of the Shahed, Gerbera, and Italmas types. The report also noted the impact of two guided missiles and 17 strike drones across 18 locations, with debris from intercepted drones falling in eight areas.
The Air Force indicated that the attack was ongoing, with several Russian drones still active in the airspace.
Ukraine's air defense systems successfully intercepted a majority of the Russian drone and missile attacks launched on June 9, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by aerial assaults as Ukraine continues to bolster its defense capabilities.