Ukraine has developed interceptor drones that can autonomously identify and shoot down Russian Shahed attack drones.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said that the system, developed by MaXon Systems passed combat testing in the Kharkiv region. 

“Ukrainian drones are already autonomously intercepting Shaheds. We are scaling up a new generation of interceptor drones,” Fedorov wrote on Telegram. He said the system automates about 95% of the entire interception process, from drone launch to the destruction of Shaheds.

Ukraine’s drones are already shooting down Shaheds autonomously.

A Brave1 participant has developed technology that automates 95% of the entire interception process — from drone launch to terminal engagement. The system has already been successfully combat-tested in the Kharkiv… pic.twitter.com/yLjqPLZWL4

— BRAVE1 (@BRAVE1ua) June 8, 2026

He said operators can see the movement of targets in real time, select a target and issue a strike command. The system then independently guides the drone to the target. 

As the interceptor nears its target, its onboard artificial intelligence automatically identifies and locks onto the Shahed drone. Despite the system’s high degree of automation, operators retain control and can abort the attack at any time.

“Autonomy is one of the key areas of development in modern air defense. Such technologies allow for a faster response to massive attacks and more effective protection of Ukrainian cities,” Fedorov noted.

The announcement comes as both Ukraine and Russia continue expanding the use of unmanned systems, with drones playing an increasingly central role in air defense, surveillance and strike operations.

Fedorov said autonomous interception systems are a key part of Ukraine’s effort to strengthen air defenses and improve protection of cities and critical infrastructure. Fedorov previously said Ukraine aims to achieve a stable interception rate of 95% against aerial threats.