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Once dismissed as sci‑fi, Ukraine’s cheap interceptor drones have become a key shield against Russia’s mass attacks, downing 150 drones in a single bombardment as Kyiv pushes to build 1,000 a day. Built by a fast-growing ecosystem of manufacturers and trainers, systems like Wild Hornets’ Sting—costing a few thousand dollars—are saving million‑dollar missiles and have destroyed hundreds of Shahed‑style drones. NATO and the UK are moving to support the approach, even as Russia shifts to faster jet-powered variants. Pilots race at night with radar cues; success varies widely and demands elite training amid a relentless, rapidly evolving drone war.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.