Ukraine has introduced a new tactic in its defense against Russian long-range drones, modifying the Antonov An-28 to launch interceptor drones in flight.
Video of the modified aircraft was first shared by Ukrainian pilot and volunteer Tymur Fatkullin, who has previously documented improvised aerial tactics, including the use of the M134 Minigun to shoot down drones.
In the latest configuration, the An-28 is fitted with underwing hardpoints carrying two types of Ukrainian-made interceptor drones: the SkyFall P1-Sun and the Merops AS-3 Surveyor. Both are designed to intercept and destroy incoming drones midair.
Fatkullin described the concept as effective in combat conditions, saying the P1-Sun “has already proven effective in real combat conditions” and likening it to “a cheap air-to-air missile.” He also claimed the aircraft has downed 222 Russian drones using gun armament.
The interceptor drones themselves are relatively small and intended to be cost-effective. The P1-Sun uses a modular, 3D-printed airframe, can reach speeds of up to 280 miles per hour and operate at altitudes of around 16,400 feet. The AS-3 Surveyor is a more advanced option, capable of autonomous or remote operation, using onboard sensors to track targets before destroying them via direct impact or proximity detonation.
Footage has been shared on social media showcasing the tactics in action.
According to the U.S. Army, similar interceptor drones produced by Merops cost around $15,000 per unit, with the potential to drop significantly with scaled production. This compares to estimates of $30,000 to $50,000 for a single Shahed-type drone, suggesting a more favorable cost exchange if interception rates remain high.
Launching interceptors from an aircraft provides several operational advantages. The An-28 can carry drones closer to their targets, reducing response times and extending engagement range. Its onboard sensors, including infrared cameras, combined with night-vision equipment used by crew members, help locate drones that are often flown at night.
The aircraft’s ability to loiter for extended periods also allows it to act as a mobile defensive screen, while its short takeoff and landing capability enables operations from austere airstrips.
Ukraine has already relied on a mix of systems to counter drone attacks, and interceptor drones have emerged as a lower-cost alternative to traditional air defense missiles. While less powerful, they can be deployed in larger numbers and help preserve more advanced interceptors for higher-value threats.
Light aircraft have become an increasingly important part of this effort. Reports indicate that platforms such as the An-28 and even trainer aircraft are responsible for a notable share of drone interceptions.
Russia’s continued expansion of drone production, reportedly reaching around 2,000 units per month with plans to increase output further, highlights the scale of the challenge facing Ukrainian air defenses.
The use of aircraft to deploy interceptor drones represents another step in Ukraine’s layered defense approach. If the concept proves effective, it could see broader adoption, particularly as militaries look for more cost-efficient ways to counter large numbers of low-cost aerial threats.
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Post Image Credit: Vasiliy Koba via United 24 Media
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