Ukrainian Individuals Pursue Drone Capture Utilizing Helicopter and Machine Gun
The consistent use of Shahed drones by Russia in their assaults is a constant threat in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian defenders combat this aerial menace with an array of measures. From the skies, their protection includes weapons such as rocket systems and anti-aircraft tank cannons, like the German-supplied Gepard.
Moreover, unconventional methods are frequently employed by the Ukrainians. Videos circulate online showing a Ukrainian helicopter crew utilizing a machine gun to target drones. As per Forbes, the helicopter in question is a Mi-8 transport type.
In one of these videos, a Ukrainian soldier can be seen firing at an Iranian-made Shahed drone from the helicopter's cockpit using a machine gun. The shooter is positioned between the pilot and co-pilot, shooting through a front opening, or the aircraft's nose. The spent cartridge shells land in the cockpit, filling the area with gun smoke.
Attack from a propeller plane
Another video demonstrates a soldier shooting from the helicopter's open side door with a machine gun. The sequence of events is unclear when comparing the two clips.
Historically, Ukrainian defenders have employed other solutions as well. For instance, a Yak-52 training aircraft has been modified to serve as a drone hunter. This two-engine propeller plane has been primarily used in the southern parts of the country. Similar to the helicopter, the plane lacks an in-built weaponry. Instead, a marksman is situated in the rear of the aircraft and attacks the drones with a machine gun from there.
In addition to helicopters and propeller planes, Ukraine also employs their own drones to collide with and bring down Russian drones. These methods offer significant cost advantages over the use of anti-aircraft missiles, which are not readily available.
The European Union, in response to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, has imposed economic sanctions on Russia, aiming to deter their continued use of Shahed drones. The European Union also provides military aid to Ukraine, including supplying the Gepard anti-aircraft tank cannons.
In order to counter the Iranian-made Shahed drones, Ukraine has repurposed a Yak-52 training aircraft as a drone hunter, equipping it with a machine gun for defense.
