CAPABILITIES OF AIR DEFENCE IN COUNTERING UAVS IN COMBAT CONDITIONS – LESSONS FROM THE RUSSO-UKRAINIAN CONFLICT
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Abstract
The main objective of this article is to identify and evaluate the methods used by air defense (AD) units to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the context of a real armed conflict, using the war in Ukraine in 2022 as a case study. The research
employs methods of analysis and synthesis, deduction, and case study, focusing on the operational effectiveness of Ukrainian AD systems facing widespread use of UAVs by Russian forces. The findings indicate that the most effective countermeasures include short- and very-short-range air defense systems, mobile fire units, and electronic warfare capabilities. The article also discusses the economic challenge of engaging low-cost UAVs with high-cost effectors, the necessity of integrating kinetic and
non-kinetic measures under a unified command and control (C2) structure, and the need for continued development of specialized counter-drone systems. Operational experience gained by the Ukrainian Armed Forces is presented as a valuable foundation for shaping future air defense strategies in the face of evolving aerial threats.
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