A Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jet pilot has downed a Russian Shahed drone using an unusual aerial maneuver, causing the unmanned aircraft to crash and explode. Video footage appears to show the MiG-29 flying in close proximity beneath the drone, disrupting its flight path with its aerodynamic wake.
The tactic reportedly destabilized the Shahed drone, which is of Iranian design and adapted for Russian use. The drone is then seen plummeting to the ground before detonating in a fireball. This method highlights Ukraine's increasing skill in intercepting Russian drones, which are relatively light and susceptible to atmospheric disturbances.
This incident occurred amidst a period of intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine. On Thursday, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones targeting Kyiv and its surrounding areas, an overnight assault that lasted for hours and resulted in at least 16 reported civilian deaths. Ukrainian officials stated that the attack involved a combination of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, aimed at causing significant damage to civilian infrastructure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the attack as massive and stated that Russia had been preparing it for a considerable time. He also appealed for additional Western air defense interceptors, such as the U.S.-made Patriot system, citing a shortage that strains Ukraine's defense capabilities. Ukraine's air force reported that the overnight barrage included cruise missiles and jet-powered drones. Explosions were reported across Kyiv, with air raid warnings extending past dawn. Approximately 40 people were reported wounded.
Russia's Ministry of Defense claimed responsibility for striking a Kyiv industrial site involved in manufacturing components for cruise missiles, as well as sites for drone production and storage, an ammunition depot, and a logistics center. Ukraine's intelligence agency, in comments published Thursday, suggested that Russia has the capacity to produce over 200 cruise and ballistic missiles monthly and possesses substantial stockpiles of various missile types. These claims could not be independently verified.
In parallel, Ukraine has been conducting long-range drone strikes on Russian territory, targeting oil facilities and other infrastructure, which have reportedly led to fuel shortages and impacted businesses within Russia. In July, Kyiv was identified by the United Nations as one of the hardest-hit cities, with at least 54 civilians killed and 202 injured.
Earlier reports have also shown Ukrainian forces employing other unconventional methods against drones, including a video from the previous month that depicted a backseat gunner on a Yak-52 aircraft shooting down multiple Russian drones with an assault rifle.