On the night of July 11, Ukraine was subjected to a large-scale aerial assault. Russian forces employed a wide arsenal: ballistic missiles, air-to-surface guided missiles, and attack drones. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, a total of 121 drones and numerous missiles were launched.
Scale of the Attack and Air Defense Operations
According to preliminary data released by the Air Force, by morning (as of 08:30), the Ukrainian air defense system had successfully neutralized the threat. In the north, south, and east of the country, 111 enemy drones of various types were shot down or suppressed, including Shahed, Gerbera, and Italmas. Air defense also intercepted two Kh-59/69 air-to-surface guided missiles.
Despite the active efforts of the defenders, hits could not be avoided. Impacts from ballistic missiles, two air-to-surface guided missiles, and seven attack drones were recorded at 11 locations. Additionally, debris from shot-down targets fell in three areas. Information regarding the fate of two anti-radiation missiles is still being verified.
Situation in Kyiv and Casualties
Particular attention was drawn to the attack on the capital. On the night of July 11, Russian troops struck Kyiv with ballistic missiles. Hits were recorded in several districts of the city. As a result of the incident, 10 people were injured, including a child. Information regarding damage and the exact number of casualties in other regions continues to come in.
Missile Shortage for Air Defense
Experts and military sources note a serious problem: Ukraine is experiencing a shortage of missiles for air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic targets. Due to the lack of ammunition, Patriot systems, which are the key shield against ballistic missiles, had to be switched from automatic mode to manual. This significantly complicates the work of operators and reduces the speed of reaction to threats.
Air War Statistics
Over the last month, Russia has launched almost 6,000 drones and missiles at Ukrainian territory. Ukrainian forces destroyed about 5,300 of them, which constitutes the overwhelming majority. In particular, during the massive attacks in June, air defense shot down 89% of aerial targets. However, the interception rate of ballistic missiles has dropped to 40%, making them the most challenging threat for Ukrainian defense. Intercepting such targets requires a significant number of expensive PAC-3 missiles for Patriot systems, stocks of which are depleting.
The Ukrainian Air Force warned that the attack is ongoing and enemy drones remain in the airspace. Citizens are urged to strictly follow safety rules.
