Ukraine mounts Hellfire missiles on trucks to intercept drones
Air Force officials confirm the use of vehicle-based laser-guided systems, noting that 21 Russian drones were shot down in January.
By Elizabeth Morales ·
Ukrainian military units now employ ground vehicles fitted with laser-guided Hellfire missiles to defend against aerial threats. Yurii Ihnat, head of communications for the Air Force Command, confirmed the deployment of these systems on the RBC-Ukraine podcast TSE BAZA.
Ihnat explained that commanders select specific weapons based on the operational area. He noted, "We have different systems, the FrankenSAM systems and there are vehicles with laser-guided Hellfire missiles." He did not specify the exact vehicle models, the total number in service, or the specific missile modifications used.
The Air Force integrates these ground assets with aviation units to prevent friendly fire. Fighter aircraft operate in zones where ground-based defenses are inactive. Near cities and key infrastructure, teams use man-portable air defense systems and other ground assets. Electronic warfare equipment also plays a role, jamming Russian drones that lack adequate protection or antennas.
Ukrainian forces have occasionally used assault rifles to down drones, though Ihnat described this as rare. Each asset is positioned where it offers the best chance of engagement.
The AGM-114 Hellfire is an American guided missile family designed to hit targets such as armored vehicles and air defense systems. Manufacturer Lockheed Martin states that Hellfire II missiles use semi-active laser homing and can be launched from helicopters, aircraft, ground vehicles, and ships.
Ukrainian forces previously deployed American Tempest mobile surface-to-air missile systems carrying two AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles. In January 2026, soldiers reported shooting down 21 Russian Shahed drones using these specific systems.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda
