Ukraine upgraded its An-28 transport aircraft and shot down 213 Russian drones.
The An-28 aircraft, equipped with a Minigun machine gun and the P1-SUN interceptor UAV, has become a cost-effective and efficient solution for destroying low-altitude targets like the Shahed.
The Ukrainian Air Force achieved remarkable combat performance using upgraded An-28 transport aircraft to successfully destroy 213 Russian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This method is being seen as a cost-effective alternative to using expensive anti-aircraft missiles or specialized fighter jets to protect the skies.
Evidence from the markings on the aircraft's fuselage.
Citing the New York Times, the insignia on the An-28 aircraft's fuselage indicates that the unit shot down a number of Shahed and Geran UAVs. Notably, the aircraft also features unusual symbols believed to be those of Russian Corsair or Forpost reconnaissance UAVs. Based on the shape of the tail fin, experts believe it is most likely a Corsair – a type of Russian weapon deployed in the conflict, with at least one shot down in 2022.
Integrating advanced UAV interception technology.
In addition to traditional attack methods, this An-28 has undergone significant technical upgrades. Specifically, since April, the P1-SUN interceptor UAV from SkyFall has been integrated into the aircraft's system. With three payloads under each wing, the An-28 is capable of carrying up to six interceptor missiles simultaneously.
Furthermore, the aircraft is equipped with a specialized optical station that allows for precise aerial target acquisition. The use of these systems enables Ukraine to destroy enemy UAVs at a much lower cost than using jet fighters and air-to-air missiles.
Combat tactics and volunteer crew
Ukraine has been employing the tactic of using low-speed fixed-wing aircraft like the An-28 to "hunt" Shahed-type UAVs since February of this year. Field reports indicate that the onboard combat team used the M134 Minigun 6-barreled machine gun to destroy targets after being guided into the operational area by air traffic control.
Notably, the crews of these An-28s consist of volunteer civilian pilots. They work closely with the Ukrainian Armed Forces to protect airspace, performing visual target identification and destruction missions, especially in challenging night combat conditions.
