Ukraine used to shoot them down. Now, they fly in pairs, drop bombs on the way, and keep coming.
From: Euromaiden Press BY YEVHENIIA MARTYNIUK
The Iranian-made Shahed-136 drone—rebranded by Russia as the Geran-2—has become a central weapon in Moscow’s drone campaign against Ukraine, Forbesreports. Its low cost, long range, and substantial payload have made it a cornerstone of Russia’s evolving military strategy.
While Ukraine initially grew increasingly effective at countering these drones, Russia has recently scaled up production of upgraded Shahed variants, posing a growing threat to Ukrainian air defenses. Analysts warn that if these new drones overwhelm existing systems, the remnants of civilian life in Ukrainian cities could face renewed devastation.
Ukraine’s early success against Shahed drones
Ukraine’s air defense strategy initially kept Shahed drones largely at bay. On 25 January 2025, the Ukrainian Air Forcereported intercepting all 61 drones launched in a single wave—15 jammed, 46 shot down.
Voice of Ukraine 