Interceptor drones not enough — air defense must be strengthened, says defense company founder

That’s according to Valerii Borovyk, founder of the defense manufacturing company First Contact and a combat veteran, speaking on Espreso TV.

“Right now, we can’t rely solely on interceptor drones — the technology isn’t perfect yet,” Borovyk said. “I wouldn’t say it takes ten interceptors to neutralize a single target — more like three to five. And even without artificial intelligence, our guys are proving they can take down large, complex targets with fewer drones, including modern Shahed drones, which are getting increasingly sophisticated.”

Borovyk emphasized that drone interceptors are just one element of a broader air defense architecture needed to defend against Russian UAVs.

“We also need to focus on kinetic interception — using machine guns or dedicated counter-drone systems,” he said. 

“There’s a need to further develop small missile systems, and we shouldn’t overlook light aircraft, which should be integrated into the air defense forces to avoid incidents of friendly fire. Helicopters, in particular, have proven highly effective — they’re a relatively inexpensive way to take down drones, especially compared to fighter jets. Of course, we won’t be able to avoid costly solutions either. Missile systems and traditional air defense platforms are essential in the final stage of interception. If a drone can’t be brought down by other means, we’ll have to use expensive missiles. All of these components must be developed.”

• On July 25, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Ukrainian interceptor drone manufacturers and urged them to boost production.