The Ukrainian “Shahed hunter” based on the civilian transport aircraft An-28 has destroyed 213 enemy drones.
This is evidenced by markings on the aircraft fuselage shown in a report by The New York Times.
Among dozens of markings of downed Shahed and Gerbera drones, one unusual emblem can also be seen that resembles several types of Russian UAVs at once.
This is likely a Korsar or Forpost reconnaissance drone, although the shape of the tail section more closely matches the Korsar.
It is noted that Russian Korsar drones have already been used in the war against Ukraine — at least one such aircraft was shot down in 2022.
Additional interceptor drone symbols are also visible on the fuselage near some markings. In April, it became known that the P1-SUN interceptor drone from SkyFall was integrated into the An-28.
The aircraft received at least three hardpoints under each wing, allowing it to carry up to six interceptors simultaneously. It is also equipped with an optical station for visual detection of air targets.
This approach allows enemy drones to be destroyed using cheaper interceptor drones as an alternative to expensive air-to-air missiles.
The use of the An-28 as a “hunter” for Russian Shahed strike UAVs became known in February.
Footage released at the time showed the crew using a six-barrel M134 Minigun machine gun to engage targets.
Controllers guide the aircraft to the area of Russian drone flight, after which the pilot and operator visually identify targets in the night sky.
The An-28 crew consists of civilian aviators who voluntarily joined the defense of Ukrainian airspace and assist the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
