Eleven Russian missiles destroyed in two minutes: Respect for the work of Ukrainian Nasams operators
A real battle over stereotypes and actual achievements of Ukrainian air defense is taking place in Ukraine’s airspace. The Ukrainian Air Force has released details about the operation of the modern Nasams missile system, which has demonstrated high effectiveness in combating enemy missile formations. According to the Air Force’s press service, thanks to the coordinated work of the system’s operators, they were able to destroy 11 cruise missiles in a single air battle — all within just two minutes of combat time. Video evidence of this victory has already caused significant resonance among military circles and Ukrainian citizens. In the footage, it is visible how quickly and accurately specialists identify targets, select the appropriate launchers, and destroy the enemy by knocking down his airframes mid-air. The third-generation Nasams missile system, which appeared in the ranks of the Ukrainian military in the autumn of 2022, is one of the first complexes Ukraine received with the support of partners, notably Norway. It is a modern, short-range system consisting of a command post, radar, and several launchers. Each container holds six guided missiles capable of hitting high-precision targets in the air. During the battle, Nasams system operators demonstrated remarkable professionalism and swift response. They detect targets using radars, select the target, and launch missiles that destroy the threat in the shortest possible time. It is noted that, during the operation of this unit, Ukrainian forces have destroyed over 150 targets, primarily cruise missiles and other lethal threats endangering peaceful life in Ukraine. One of the operators, commenting on the event, noted: “In one air battle, we shot down 11 cruise missiles. It lasted no more than two minutes — and the entire work was done skillfully and quickly. Russian propaganda media constantly accuse our air defenses of insufficiency, but this is completely false. The AIM-120 AMRAAM missile, if it misses, simply self-destructs in the air. It does not have the explosive power of Russian ballistic missiles, which is why our defense operates exactly like this — effectively and purposefully.” Defense experts emphasize that the Nasams complex is primarily designed to destroy aerodynamical targets — aircraft, helicopters, various modifications of cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles. At the same time, it is incapable of engaging ballistic targets because the system’s radar cannot detect or track such objects, and missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM or any other suitable weapon are unable to intercept ballistic missiles due to their speed and trajectory. The Ukrainian Armed Forces remain hopeful for continued support from international partners who assist Ukraine in obtaining necessary missile systems and ammunition for Nasams. Military circles assert that these complexes and their munitions are vital for protecting Ukrainian cities and saving civilian lives. It is not just about equipment and weapons but also about security, peace of mind, and the opportunity for Ukraine to remain an independent and sovereign state amid the ongoing war. Thus, Ukrainian military forces prove that modern defense is not only about weapons and tactics but also about high-level training and collective responsibility of each system operator. It is likely that these efforts will eventually persuade the enemy and help end the war, restore peace, and normalize life in Ukraine.