British Intelligence analyzed Russia’s air attack strategy against Ukraine
The UK Ministry of Defence has released an analytical review of Russia’s air strikes in January and February 2026, identifying energy infrastructure as the enemy’s consistent primary target.
According to intelligence data, since October 2025, the aggressor has deployed over 20,000 attack drones and more than 300 cruise missiles, attempting to systematically destroy Ukraine’s energy system. Analysts note that Russia focuses on destroying both generation facilities and power transmission networks to exert maximum pressure on the civilian population and the economy.
The intensity of UAV attacks in January slightly decreased compared to December due to unfavorable weather conditions; however, in the first two weeks of February, the average daily number of launches rose from 140 to 190 units. Intelligence also noted a short pause in attacks on the energy sector at the end of January, observed by both sides. At the same time, this winter Russia began more actively using ballistic missiles, allowing it to bypass certain technical difficulties associated with using strategic aviation, including Tu-95 aircraft.
British military experts interpret any lulls in missile strikes as periods of stockpiling for future massive attacks. The Kremlin’s main priority in the near term will almost certainly remain Ukraine’s critical national infrastructure. Analysts emphasize that the increased intensity of ballistic strikes is Russia’s attempt to compensate for the shortage of precision cruise missiles and to wear down Ukraine’s air defense system ahead of the spring period.
As a reminder, the occupiers attacked two districts in Dnipropetrovsk region with artillery and drones.
Meanwhile, air defense forces destroyed 29 enemy drones.
