In November, Russia launched about 2.3 thousand drones in Ukraine - British intelligence
The monthly number of Russian drones launched in Ukraine has been increasing throughout the year.
According to Censor.NET, this is stated in the intelligence review of the UK Ministry of Defense.
In November 2024, Russia launched about 2,300 unmanned aerial systems of unilateral attack of various types in Ukraine. The monthly number of drones launched increased throughout 2024, with a significant increase observed since July 2024.
The growth rate from October to November decreased compared to the previous months. Data for December 2024 shows approximately 850 launches. However, as noted by British intelligence, it is likely that the weather affected operations in December, as evidenced by some nights with significantly higher waves of drones after a period of low or no activity.
Absent any impact on launch sites and production, it is likely that Russia can maintain the number of launches at a level of at least more than 1,500 per month.
According to the British intelligence, Russian anti-aircraft missile systems provide coverage of targets throughout Ukraine, which allows Russia to maintain pressure and at the same time replenish its stockpile of long-range air defense missiles.
In addition, the report noted that it is likely that in September-November 2024, up to 50-60% of all launches were "false UAV launches."
The British informed that Russian troops have a variety of decoys at their disposal.
Smaller in size and cheaper than Shahed-class drones due to their construction materials, they are designed to complicate Ukrainian defenses by saturating or confusing the radar picture, forcing Ukrainian air defense teams to work harder, hoping to eventually cause fatigue.
The intelligence officers added that some of these systems probably still carry a small payload of explosives, which ultimately makes them no less dangerous if they reach their target.
Last night, Russia attacked Ukraine with 72 Shahed strike drones and other types of drones. Air defense forces shot down 47 drones.
