All Russian ballistic missiles Kinzhal launched towards the capital of Ukraine after the deployment of the Patriot air defense system have been successfully intercepted. Over 20 Kinzhal missiles have been fired at Kyiv, and all of them were successfully intercepted since the Patriot missile system became operational, according to Colonel of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Serhiy Yaremenko, in an interview with Ukrinform.
"When we engage against ballistic missiles, whether it's Kinzhal X-47M, Iskander-M, 48N (missile using S-400), or Zircon launched from the Bastion missile complex, for us it's primarily a ballistic target. Later, analysts and experts identify the specific aerial target based on certain characteristics, searching for debris. I can say one thing: all 'Kinzhal' missiles launched at the capital of Ukraine since the announcement that the Patriot air defense missile system was on combat duty have been successfully intercepted. Not a single ballistic target has reached its destination within the capital of our country since early May 2023. Over 20 Kinzhal missiles were launched at Kyiv, and all were successfully intercepted," Yaremenko reported.
Responding to why Russia has currently reduced its shelling of Kyiv, Yaremenko noted that it is not because the Defense Forces are effectively repelling attacks.
"Russia, having the means, determines the list of objects for strike. Perhaps during this period, they are interested in other objects. However, periodically, important state facilities in the Kyiv region also come under attack from the enemy. We are ready daily, every second, at any time of day, for such challenges," assured the brigade commander.
Commenting on countering UAVs, Yaremenko emphasized that the most effective way is to destroy the carrier of the guided aviation bomb.
"If there is no carrier, there will be no guided aviation bomb. We have weaponry capable of doing this, but it is quite limited. We need armament, we need guided anti-aircraft missiles for this purpose," he added.
