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Ukraine's Drone-Hunting An-28 Turboprop in Action

Yahoo Finance •
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Footage reveals how Ukraine is using an adapted Antonov An-28 aircraft, armed with a Minigun, to target Russian drones. The crew, comprised of civilian volunteers, has reportedly destroyed almost 150 drones, including five Shahed/Geran models in a single sortie. Air traffic controllers guide the An-28 to areas where drones are active.

The An-28's high-wing design provides a wide firing field for the Minigun, which can fire between 3,000 and 6,000 rounds per minute. The aircraft, developed in the former Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, has demonstrated its effectiveness in the ongoing conflict. The crew uses night-vision goggles and infrared cameras for targeting.

This adaptation underscores the ingenuity of the Ukrainian forces in utilizing readily available resources. The An-28's short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities make it ideal for operating from various airstrips. It's a pragmatic solution given the limitations they face against Russia's air power.

With Russia arming its drones with MANPADS and air-to-air missiles, the threat to the An-28 crew is increasing. It remains unclear how many An-28s are currently deployed, but the use of light aircraft in the drone-killing role is becoming more prevalent. Further transfers from other operators may be possible.