The Ukrainian Air Force (UAF) has released new footage showing its German-made Skynex air defense system shooting down six Russian Shahed drones during a recent operation.

The time and location of the operation were not disclosed.

Ukraine first received Skynex systems in 2023 and released footage of them in use during training exercises in September 2024.

The Skynex is a modular, lightweight 35mm automated anti-aircraft gun designed for short-range air defense. It uses ammunition that is significantly more cost-effective than guided missile systems.

As Russia intensifies its drone attacks using Iranian-made Shahed UAVs, military analysts say that expanding Ukraine’s inventory of Skynex systems could significantly strengthen its short-range air defense capabilities.

The Air Force praised the system’s performance, saying it boosts morale among Ukraine’s air defenders, and thanked international partners for their support. Rheinmetall, the German manufacturer of Skynex, has played a key role in strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses.