Russia Says It Shot Down Around 90 Ukrainian Drones in Overnight Strikes
GeokHub
Contributing Writer
Moscow / Kyiv, Dec 12 (GeokHub) Russia’s defence authorities say its air-defence systems intercepted and destroyed about 90 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) during overnight operations. According to the statement, most of the drones were downed before they could reach Russian territory.
The Russian military described the action as part of ongoing counter-strike efforts to defend key infrastructure and military positions. Officials said the drone salvo was reportedly launched by Ukrainian forces from multiple directions, but provided few details on where the interceptions took place or whether any damage occurred on the ground.
Ukraine’s military has not yet issued its own account of the overnight drone activity. In recent months, Ukrainian forces have increasingly deployed unmanned systems for reconnaissance and targeted strikes, reflecting growing reliance on drones in the protracted conflict.
Analysis / Impact:
If confirmed, the destruction of dozens of drones in a single operation underlines the intensity of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the expanding role of unmanned technology on both sides. Drones have become a focal point in modern warfare, used for surveillance, precision strikes, and disruption of supply lines. The high number of interceptions suggests heightened aerial activity and advanced air-defence responses.
For Ukrainian forces, the deployment of large numbers of drones signals a strategy of sustained pressure and tactical flexibility. However, the losses reported by Russian officials may indicate evolving counter-UAV capabilities that Kyiv will need to address. On the Russian side, successful interceptions are likely to be highlighted domestically to reinforce the narrative of defensive strength and operational preparedness.
