Ukraine is testing laser-based air defense systems and new interceptors
Ukraine continues to develop its own defense technologies and is already testing laser-based air defense systems. Work is also underway on low-cost interceptor missiles, new drones, and systems to defend against ballistic missiles and guided bombs.
Ukrainian defense development is reaching a new level. According to Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, the country is already testing a laser-based air defense system, and the first results are in. “We are already testing the laser and have seen some results. We’re not sharing much at this point, but the project is moving forward actively,” Fedorov said.
The minister did not disclose any technical details or specifications of the new system. At the same time, he emphasized that work is ongoing and that the development of this area is one of the priorities of the Ukrainian defense industry. Separately, Fedorov spoke about the effectiveness of Ukrainian interceptor drones. According to him, in May alone, they destroyed nearly 7,000 Russian Shahed- and “Gerbera”-type drones.
Furthermore, during one of Russia’s most recent large-scale attacks, approximately 75% of the attack drones were shot down by these interceptor drones. According to the minister, Ukraine continues to scale up production of such systems. The Ministry of Defense has already announced a tender to procure another 150,000 drones, some of which belong to the Middle Strike class.
Fedorov also reported that Ukraine is actively working on developing low-cost cruise missiles, which are planned to incorporate artificial intelligence technologies. “This may sound like a futuristic project, but in a year it will no longer be news. We will be working on this,” he emphasized.
According to him, Ukrainian specialists are currently testing developments from nearly ten companies that are creating affordable missiles to intercept Russian drones. At the same time, work is underway on technologies designed to more effectively counter ballistic missiles and guided aerial bombs, which Russia regularly uses in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Fedorov emphasized that developing domestic technologies remains one of the key priorities for strengthening the country’s defense capabilities. Ukraine continues to rely on modern solutions that allow it to respond quickly to new threats and defend its airspace more effectively against Russian attacks. Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced this during the Brave1 Advantage event.
Ukraine has begun accepting applications for financial assistance for veterans who, as a result of the war, have a Group I or II disability due to vision loss. The maximum payment amount is up to 95,000 hryvnias and is intended for adapting housing and living conditions.
