Overview

• In the July 30–31 assault, Russia deployed the new jet-powered Shahed-238, rebranded as Geran-3, in coordinated missile and drone attacks on Kyiv.
• With speeds exceeding 500 km/h and a radar profile akin to low-flying cruise missiles, the Geran-3 sharply reduces interception windows for Ukraine’s defenses.
• Its jet engine also produces a distinct acoustic signature that complicates early warning compared with propeller-driven Shahed-136 models.
• Recovery of debris bearing serial number U-36 in late June confirms at least limited serial production of the Geran-3 within Russia.
• Ukraine is analyzing wreckage from the strike and adapting its air defenses by integrating faster interceptor drones and recalibrated radar systems.