Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenski warned that Patriot anti-aircraft defence systems were unfit to fight Russian drones. The Ukrainian leader proposed that Poland cooperate in creating an effective anti-dron defence system.
"Patriot will not aid Poland fight the Shaheds. He's not gonna aid anyone. It is simply a weapon intended primarily to combat ballistic missiles" - explained Zelenski during a press conference with Finnish president Alexander Stubb in Kiev.
Defence costs problems
The Ukrainian president pointed to the dramatic difference in costs between defence systems and targets. Patriot rocket costs $2-3 million, while Russian drone Shahed or Geran - a maximum of $100,000.
"US - their main maker in the planet - presently produces 50-60 specified rockets (to Patriot systems) per month. erstwhile we're dealing with 500-800 Shahedi daily, it is apparent that Patriot (may be) not intended to fight drones" - explained Zelenski.
Offer of aid to Poland
Ukrainian authorities are ready to share experiences with Poland in combating mass drone attacks. Zelenski stressed that only Ukraine and Russia present have effective multi-layer anti-drone defence systems.
"We are open and ready. Donald (Tusk) said he would send (to Ukraine) his military. I contacted our Minister of Defence and the Syrian Commander (Oleksandrem) who is in contact with the Polish commander today" - the president informed.
Restrictions on current solutions
Zelenski excluded the effectiveness of simple solutions in the fight against drones. Ordering Ukrainian interception drones will besides not solve the problem, as all 2 or 3 months the method settings of unmanned and electronic combat systems change.
The Ukrainian leader admitted that the thought of shooting down drones over Ukraine with the aid of Polish systems "will not work anymore", although it may be 1 of the elements of defence. "It's just not enough" - he stressed.
The request for joint coordination
The president of Ukraine proposed joint coordination of anti-aircraft defence systems. According to him, Polish air force may be utilized in Poland, but close cooperation is needed.
"It is desirable that Ukraine coordinate this due to the fact that there are five-seven elements of multi-level protection. It can be done together" - said Zelenski. This would strengthen the defence of both western Ukraine and Poland.
Statements by the Ukrainian president fell the day after Russian drones repeatedly breached Polish airspace during the night attack on Ukraine. Operations Command of Armed Forces Types called it "an act of aggression" posing a real threat to the safety of citizens.
Sources used: "PAP" Note: This article has been edited with the aid of Artificial Intelligence.
