Ukraine deploys Skyguard system amid surge in Russian jet drone attacks

Ukraine has deployed an Italian-Swiss Skyguard air defense system to combat duty as it faces a rapidly escalating threat from Russia's jet-powered drones. The 38th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment released the first public footage of the system in action, marking the latest addition to Ukraine's layered air defenses ahead of a fifth winter of Russian aerial strikes. The deployment comes as Russia has dramatically increased its use of faster, jet-powered attack drones. Ukrainian military data shows Russia launched about 450 such drones in June, a figure that surged to approximately 2,850 by August, representing a roughly sixfold increase over three months. In some recent attacks, the percentage of jet-powered drones has exceeded 70 percent, according to a deputy commander of Ukraine's air force. This shift presents a significant challenge for Ukrainian defenders. The faster drones, which can travel at speeds between 240 and 500 kilometers per hour, give air defenses less time to detect, track, and intercept them. Some models are also equipped with advanced antenna systems that make them highly resistant to GPS jamming, complicating electronic warfare countermeasures.