Inside the Dangerous Work of Defending Ukraine s Skies – WSJ

ODESA, Ukraine Like a World War II fighter ace, commander Viktor Petryshyn has stenciled onto the side of his air-defense system the 58 drones, missiles and planes he has shot down.

The war in Ukraine has shown how a comprehensive air defense can keep even a formidable air force like Russia s at bay. It has also revealed limitations as Ukraine defends against waves of drone attacks and harder-to-hit modern missiles, with a limited supply of ammunition.

Behind these sophisticated air-defense systems, which fire missiles to intercept aerial threats, are men and women who often make split-second decisions that can save scores of lives. 

Their own lives are also increasingly at risk as Russia targets Ukrainian defensive positions. Winning the upper hand in the air has significant ramifications for a war that has become a grinding stalemate on the ground. 

via www.wsj.com