Swedish analysis highlights challenges of missile and drone threats in Ukraine

Swedish daily Dagens Nyheter has published a technical overview examining the aerial weapon systems used in the war between Russia and Ukraine, detailing why specific systems challenge modern air defenses.

The analysis distinguishes between ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and uncrewed aerial vehicles. High-speed ballistic missiles follow high parabolic flight paths, giving defense systems minimal reaction time. Conversely, cruise missiles fly low along terrain contours to avoid radar detection. Low-cost drones are increasingly used in swarms to saturate air defenses and force the consumption of expensive interceptor missiles. Defensive operations against these varied weapons require integrated, multi-layered air defense networks capable of tracking targets across distinct operational altitudes and speeds.

Sources: Dagens Nyheter