Ukraine has shot down a Russian combat helicopter using an interception drone, according to Robert Brovdi, commander of the "Magyar Birds" drone unit, who released footage of the strike on Monday. The video shows the helicopter being hit and crashing over Ukrainian territory.
Brovdi initially claimed the target was a modern Mi-28 attack helicopter, but closer analysis suggested it was an older model. The footage shows the helicopter flying low over a field in eastern Ukraine when it suddenly bursts into flames. Moments later it turns into a fireball, rapidly loses altitude and crashes. It remains unclear whether any of the crew survived. Shortly afterward, another Russian helicopter is seen hovering over the wreckage, apparently attempting to protect or rescue the downed crew.
Video: A Ukrainian drone brings down a Russian attack helicopter // Social media
A second video, filmed from the drone's perspective, revealed that the strike was carried out by a simple FPV drone, not one of Ukraine's more advanced interception models. The clip shows the drone initially pursuing vehicles on a road before its operator redirects it toward the helicopter. Just before impact, the helicopter's gunner can be seen looking out from its side door.
Interception drones are fast becoming a central weapon in Ukraine's arsenal, alarming aviation experts worldwide who fear the technology could spread and allow small, inexpensive aircraft to bring down helicopters, drones and even planes.
Ukraine is now mass-producing these drones in multiple models and numbers large enough to change the air war. Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal said on September 18 that the country would soon be capable of deploying at least 1,000 interception drones daily to repel Russian attacks.
"That level will be achieved. I cannot say what the current figure is, but in the near future this will be the reality," Shmyhal said at a press conference alongside Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
The technology is critical for Ukraine's air defense as Russia has intensified its aerial bombardments. In July, Russia launched a record 6,129 Shahed drones at Ukraine, followed by another record on September 7, when 810 drones were fired in a single night. Shmyhal said Ukraine's goal is to intercept every Russian drone crossing into its skies.
