Ukrainian air defense forces take down 179 aerial targets during a mission Russian attack on December 7, 2025, as Russia launched one of its largest strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
The Attack
Russia launched 246 aerial assets toward Ukraine on the night of December 7, beginning at 6:00 PM on December 6. The attack included:
- 241 Shahed-type drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles
- 3 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles launched from Tambov region
- 2 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles launched from Kursk region
The drones were launched from multiple directions, including Kursk, Orel, Millerovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia, and Chauda in temporarily occupied Crimea.
Ukrainian Response
Ukrainian air defense forces shot down or suppressed 179 air targets by 9:00 AM:
- 175 Shahed drones and other UAVs
- 2 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles
- 2 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles
The defense involved aviation, anti-aircraft missile forces, electronic warfare units, unmanned systems, and mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
Targets and Damage
Russia targeted critical infrastructure across Ukraine, focusing on energy facilities. The attack caused damage to Ukraine’s power grid, with power outages reported in multiple regions.
At least 8-9 people were killed and dozens were injured in the strikes, according to reports.
Regional Impact
Poland scrambled fighter jets and activated air defense systems during the attack, keeping forces on high alert for approximately four hours due to Russia’s long-range aviation activity near the Polish border. Poland temporarily closed Rzeszow and Lublin airports as a precautionary measure.
NATO allies, including Spanish and Czech air forces, assisted Poland in protecting its airspace during the operation.
Context
This attack was part of a sustained Russian campaign against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The massive strike occurred as peace talks between Russia and Ukraine continued in Florida.
Russia has dramatically increased its use of drones in recent months, with 653 Shahed drones launched in a single attack earlier in December. The high volume of drone attacks has forced Ukraine to develop cost-effective defense solutions, including equipping F-16 fighters with low-cost laser-guided rockets specifically designed to counter Shahed drones.
