Ukraine’s drones destroy $70 million of Russian air defense systems in Zaporizhzhia
Ukrainian drones operated by the Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) struck a series of high-value Russian air defense systems in occupied Zaporizhzhia, inflicting an estimated $70 million in damage, according to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.
Among the targets hit was a Pantsir-S1 system, designed to intercept drones and missiles. Video footage shows the drone evading its anti-aircraft fire and striking the combat module, rendering the system inoperable. In another strike, a drone hit the radar dome of a Buk-M3 launcher, likely disabling its detection capability. A third drone attempted to target the 9S19 Imbir radar component of an S-300V air defense system, though it reportedly missed.
The operation marks another escalation in Ukraine’s campaign to dismantle Russian air defense infrastructure using low-cost, high-precision unmanned systems. Military analysts say the strikes are a sign of growing tactical sophistication and intelligence coordination.
This week’s attack is part of a broader pattern. Ukrainian forces have carried out multiple drone strikes on Russian radar and missile systems since early 2024. In March, three Pantsir-S1 systems and a Mi-8 helicopter were destroyed in a similar operation. Ukrainian drones have also been credited with disabling advanced Russian radar units including the 48Ya6-K1 ‘Podlet’, 1L125 ‘Nioby-SV’, and 39N6 ‘Kasta 2E2’.
The Ministry of Defense did not reveal the specific type of drone used in the latest Zaporizhzhia strikes. However, the control interface visible in footage released by HUR appears consistent with previous operations using long-range FPV drones guided by real-time intelligence.
The damage inflicted goes far beyond destroyed hardware. Systems like the Buk-M3 and Pantsir-S1 form part of Russia’s integrated air defense umbrella — shielding occupied territories, logistical hubs, and command centers. Their loss leaves Russian troops and infrastructure exposed to follow-up strikes from long-range missiles and aerial drones.
These attacks also carry symbolic weight. They demonstrate Ukraine’s ability not just to defend its skies, but to reach deep into Russian-controlled territory and surgically remove critical defensive assets. With costs for each destroyed system ranging between $15 and $45 million, Ukraine is degrading Russia’s capabilities at a fraction of the price.
As Ukraine’s drone warfare evolves, it is not just blunting Russian firepower — it is unraveling the very systems Moscow relies on to maintain its grip over occupied land.
