Ukraine layers drone defense with truck-based Hellfires

Ukrainian ground vehicles now carry laser-guided Hellfire missiles to intercept Russian aerial threats, according to Air Force communications chief Yurii Ihnat. Speaking on the RBC-Ukraine podcast TSE BAZA, Ihnat confirmed the deployment of these systems as part of a layered air defense strategy.

Ihnat stated that forces use different tools based on the operational area. "We have different systems, the FrankenSAM systems and there are vehicles with laser-guided Hellfire missiles," he said. He did not specify the exact vehicle models, the total number of units in service, or the specific missile modifications being used.

The integration of ground-based missiles allows aviation units to operate in zones where ground air defense is inactive. This separation reduces the risk of friendly fire incidents. In areas closer to cities and key infrastructure, teams equipped with man-portable air defense systems and other ground assets take over the defensive role.

Ihnat noted that electronic warfare equipment also plays a role by jamming Russian systems that lack adequate protection or antennas. He recalled rare instances where soldiers used assault rifles to bring down drones, emphasizing that each asset is placed where it is most effective.

The AGM-114 Hellfire is an American guided missile designed to target armored vehicles, air defenses, and patrol boats. Lockheed Martin describes the Hellfire II variant as featuring semi-active laser homing, with launch capabilities from helicopters, aircraft, ground vehicles, and vessels.

Ukrainian forces have previously deployed American Tempest mobile surface-to-air missile systems equipped with two AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles. In January 2026, soldiers reported shooting down 21 Russian Shahed drones using these specific systems.