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Ukraine Starts Mass Production of Interceptor Drones to Counter Swarm Attacks

New Octopus-based interceptors aim to relieve pressure on costly missile defenses.

An investigator looks through the window of an apartment building damaged during an overnight Russian drone and missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine, November 14, 2025. REUTERS/Thomas Peter

Overview

  • The defence ministry said three domestic firms have begun building the interceptors, with 11 more preparing production lines.
  • The systems are built on the combat-tested Octopus technology, which officials say works at night, under jamming, and at low altitudes.
  • President Volodymyr Zelensky set a target of up to 1,000 interceptors per day to expand Ukraine’s layered air defense.
  • Officials reported a recent large-scale Russian strike using about 430 drones and 18 missiles that killed five people in Kyiv and injured at least 34 nationwide.
  • Each interceptor costs a few thousand dollars, allowing Ukraine to conserve expensive missiles for faster cruise and ballistic threats.