ANALYSIS OF TERRORIST ATTACKS BY ATTACK DRONES IN MAY 2024

Abstract

During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, critical infrastructure and other strategic facilities of Ukraine are exposed to the greatest terrorist impact from «Shahed-131/136» attack drones.
The article analyses some aspects of the terrorist impact of «Shahed-131/136»-type attack drones against Ukraine in May 2024. It is shown that in May, as in previous months, this means of terrorist influence remains the most massive for striking critical infrastructure and other strategic objects. It is used both independently and in conjunction with missiles of various classes from different carriers.
Combined attacks by unmanned aerial vehicles such as the «Shahed-131/136», with the use of cruise missiles such as the «X-59/X-69» and «X-101/X-555», anti-aircraft missiles adapted to hit ground targets such as the «С-300/С-400», aerobolic missiles such as the «X-47M2» «Kinzhal» and «Iskander/Iskander-M» ballistic missiles, with the use of «Orlan-10» reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicles, put a very significant strain on the air defence forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The results of this combined use are quite tangible and complicate air warfare and the protection of critical infrastructure and other strategic facilities of the country. Additionally, the adaptive use of UAV swarms in coordination with missile strikes demonstrates a growing trend in asymmetric warfare tactics. This approach challenges traditional air defence strategies, requiring enhanced situational awareness, improved interception technologies, and international cooperation to counteract evolving threats. As Ukraine continues to strengthen its defensive measures, further studies and analyses of these attacks will provide valuable insights for refining counter-UAV strategies and improving national resilience.