Russia fields faster jet-powered drones, Ukraine upgrades costly defenses
Meduza reported that on 20 September Russia fielded faster jet-powered Geran-5 drones, prompting Ukraine to develop more expensive air-defence systems. Business Insider said Russia has deployed about 7,700 jet-powered drones since June, with a sharp rise in July and August, and Euronews noted that production at the Alabuga complex now includes Geran-4 and Geran-5 models that could be launched from ships in the Mediterranean. Earlier, Ukraine unveiled a delta-wing turbojet interceptor and, according to Business Insider, Wild Hornets’ Sting S interceptor downed a Geran-5 drone; newser.
com added that the faster Russian drones were striking Ukrainian cities at higher rates, while a 3D-printed Ukrainian interceptor shot down a Geran-5, as reported by The Daily Beast. United24 Media quoted President Zelenskyy saying Ukrainian air defences were now stopping 57% of Russian jet drones and 70% of all drones, with new interceptors being tested to close the gap.
