Zelenskyy discusses production of interceptors against Russian jet-powered Shaheds and data centre protection

What Happened

On 25 September, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief reviewed test results for interceptors targeting Russian jet-powered Shahed drones. The teams reported shoot-down rates and operational experience; the meeting identified main capabilities to strengthen Ukrainian defence, decided to accelerate production, and approved new decisions to establish production of different types of jet engines in Ukraine. Defence Intelligence of Ukraine briefed on Russia's technological plans for 2027, including systems Russia is counting on, production capabilities, and supply chains delivering components to Russia.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The move signals Ukraine's effort to counter faster, more difficult-to-intercept jet-powered Shahed drones through domestic interceptor and jet engine production, reducing reliance on external suppliers. Sanctions pressure on component supply chains and protection of data centres and communications infrastructure are also being prioritised as Russia targets civilian digital infrastructure alongside military objectives.

Watch For

Monitor announcements from Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on partner sanctions packages against Russian drone and missile supply networks, further Russian strikes on Ukrainian data centres and communications facilities, and concrete evidence of scaled-up Ukrainian interceptor and jet engine production.