Unconfirmed Strike on Russian Air Defense Radar Station by Ukrainian Drones
A significant setback for Moscow? Ukrainian unmanned systems reportedly targeted Russian air defense capabilities in the occupied territory of the Zaporizhia region, hitting a radar installation located far behind the front line.
The 23rd Brigade “Khortytsia” of the Ukrainian National Guard allegedly carried out a successful operation, targeting the radar station Kasta 35N6, as reported by the Ukrainian specialized site Defense Express, which shared a video that appears to come from a kamikaze drone’s onboard camera. The footage shows the drone apparently hitting the Kasta radar station.
This Russian system, crucial for air surveillance, is known for its ability to effectively detect and track targets, especially those flying at low altitudes where traditional radars often face difficulties.
“A surgical strike has crippled the air defense detection system of the occupiers in southern Zaporizhia, destroying a key radar system and weakening the enemy’s air coverage,” commented Brigadier General Oleksandr Pivnenko, commander of the National Guard, on his Telegram channel.
Integrated into the core of the Russian multi-layered air defense architecture, the Kasta 35N6 plays a predominant role in providing essential data that allows surface-to-air missiles to effectively engage threats.
Financial and Tactical Setback
If confirmed, its disabling creates immediate gaps in radar coverage, complicating the coordination of Russian air defense assets in this vital sector. Without it, Russian forces face reduced early warning capabilities and a diminished ability to respond to Ukrainian aerial threats, including drones and precision-guided munitions.
The location of this strike, deep behind the front line, underscores the growing range and precision of Ukrainian drone strikes. This capability not only allows Kiev to disrupt frontline units but also to target critical infrastructures supporting Russian operations far from direct combat zones.
The cost of a Kasta 35N6 radar is estimated at around $60 million. Beyond this financial and tactical setback, replacing such specialized equipment takes a significant amount of time in the current wartime context and under the pressure of international sanctions.
