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Dutch Foundation Sends Soviet JAK-52 to Ukraine, Aiding Shahed Drone Combat
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An old Soviet-era aircraft, once used for stunt flying, was donated and is now helping Ukraine’s efforts to combat drone attacks, thanks to the Dutch foundation Protect Ukraine. The plane, a JAK-52, has been repurposed to shoot down Iranian-made Shahed drones, which have been responsible for numerous civilian casualties, EenVandaag reported on November 11.
This low-cost solution is proving highly effective, with the aircraft downing up to 10% of Shahed drones, according to Jaap Scholten, founder of Protect Ukraine.
The plane operates by taking off when a drone swarm is detected. Once airborne at 250 km/h, the cockpit opens, and the gunner fires at drones from 50-100 meters. This method is cheaper than using ground-based anti-aircraft systems.
The JAK-52, purchased for just $90,000, is part of a broader effort to support Ukraine, which has also received cars, motorcycles, and medical supplies from the foundation.
Defense specialist Patrick Bolder acknowledged that this initiative won’t drastically change the situation in Ukraine, but he pointed out that it’s a cost-effective way to neutralize drones and every little bit of help can save Ukrainian lives.
Previously, it was reported that the international drone coalition led by the United Kingdom and Latvia will supply Ukraine with about 35,000 drone interceptors to counter Russian Shahed-type drones, the UK government announced.
According to the government statement, contracts with manufacturers will be finalized over the coming months, funded through contributions from several partner nations in the coalition.
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