On Channel 24 UTV, military expert Sergey Grabsky discussed the work of Ukrainian air defense and its associated problems. In particular, he noted that it is impossible to create a continuous air defense coverage over the entire territory of Ukraine.
What is the effectiveness of Ukraine’s air defense?
According to the expert, no state has sufficient air defense means to protect all objects. Ukraine is also among them. An example is Israel, which, even with an advanced system, could not repel all strikes during the recent Houthi attack.
Grabsky mentioned two main concepts: active and passive air defense. Active includes strikes on enemy objects such as logistics, transport infrastructure, and airfields.
Active defense has limited resources. The priority of air defense force placement is determined by the military command and official bodies. According to Grabsky, Ukraine currently has about 60 Gepard anti-aircraft installations and 4 Patriot SAM systems, which is clearly insufficient to protect all objects.
An important part of the passive air defense system is the measures for dispersing energy and transport infrastructure resources, as well as saving the population. Significant work is being done to protect energy facilities and organize the rapid restoration of destroyed infrastructure.
Grabsky also emphasized that equipping resources for restoration is an element of passive defense. “The concentration of energy generation and gas production systems is also an important part of our strategy,” he added.
The expert once again noted that staying in shelters is vital so that the enemy does not rejoice over losses among Ukrainians. Failure to comply with air defense safety requirements leads to catastrophic consequences for the civilian population.