Ukraine repels Russia’s record-breaking assault, involving 287 missiles, drones

Defense Express reported the information.

On December 13, Ukraine successfully repelled Russia's largest long-range attack since the start of the war. According to the Ukrainian Air Force Command, the attack involved 287 aerial weapons: 94 missiles and 193 drones of various types.

During this attack, Russia launched a total of 87 cruise missiles, including 55 air-launched Kh-101/Kh-555 cruise missiles, one Kh-59/Kh-69 missile, 24 sea-launched missiles, and seven ground-launched R-500 missiles from the Iskander tactical missile system. Among the missiles requiring advanced missile defense systems for interception, Russia also launched seven units: two ballistic missiles from the Iskander system, one KN-23, and four Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles.

Ukraine’s Defense Forces intercepted 80 cruise missiles of all types, achieving a 92% interception rate. Out of 193 drones, only two caused damage, as 80 were shot down, 105 lost their targets, five returned to Russia, and one flew to Belarus. This demonstrates a 99% success rate against UAVs. 

“One ballistic missile from the Iskander system was also intercepted, highlighting the ongoing need for advanced missile defense systems,” the outlet emphasized.

Defense Express noted that the largest previous attack occurred on August 26, 2024, with 236 long-range weapons launched: 127 missiles and 109 kamikaze drones. At that time, Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted Shahed drones with 90.8% effectiveness, and cruise missiles with 86%.