Ukraine Confirms Truck Missile Use

Ukrainian military units are operating vehicles armed with laser-guided Hellfire missiles. Yurii Ihnat, head of the Air Force Command communications department, confirmed the deployment in a recent podcast interview with RBC-Ukraine. He stated that the forces use these systems alongside other assets to counter Russian aerial attacks.

The Air Force employs a layered defense strategy. Ihnat explained that aviation units operate in zones where ground-based air defense is inactive to prevent friendly fire incidents. Closer to cities and critical infrastructure, teams deploy man-portable air defense systems and other ground assets.

The Hellfire missile is an American-guided weapon. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, notes that the Hellfire II variant uses semi-active laser homing. The system can be launched from helicopters, aircraft, ground vehicles, and ships. Ihnat did not specify the exact vehicle models used or the total number of systems in service.

Ukrainian forces previously integrated these missiles into mobile surface-to-air platforms. In January 2026, soldiers reported downing 21 Russian Shahed drones using American Tempest systems equipped with Longbow Hellfire missiles. Ihnat said electronic warfare equipment also jams many Russian assets, as not all systems have adequate protective antennas.

Ihnat mentioned that soldiers have occasionally used assault rifles to shoot down drones, though this remains rare. He emphasized that each defensive asset is placed where it provides the most effective coverage. The Air Force continues to adjust its tactics based on the specific area of operation and the type of threat.