Ukrainian Air Defenses Shoot Down Russian Iskander-K Missiles Over Kyiv

Ukrainian air defense forces successfully intercepted a Russian Iskander-K cruise missile over Kyiv during a nighttime attack on July 31, using man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) operated by the Presidential Brigade. Despite the missile's low-altitude flight path and advanced guidance designed to evade radar detection, Ukrainian units managed to shoot down three of eight missiles launched, preventing further civilian casualties. The attack involved 317 Russian drones and missiles, of which Ukrainian defenses intercepted 291, highlighting the effectiveness of Ukraine's multi-layered air defense network that combines strategic systems and mobile short-range units. The missiles were launched from Russia's Kursk Oblast, giving defenders minimal time to respond, and Russian tactics included flying the missiles close to riverbeds and terrain contours to avoid detection. Ukrainian President Zelensky and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney discussed strengthening Ukraine's air defenses in response to these ongoing attacks. Separately, the Ukrainian Air Force has successfully preserved its fighter jets against Russian airstrikes by employing dispersal and mobile servicing units, with international support providing F-16 aircraft to bolster its air capabilities.