Ukrainian servicemen demonstrated a unique case of a night combat sortie, confirming the high professional level of our pilots and their ability to effectively counter modern Russian kamikaze drones
The Ukrainian Air Force released a video recording capturing the precise strike of a Ukrainian pilot, known by the call sign Yellowtail, against a Russian reconnaissance and attack drone of the "Shahed" type during nighttime. This is a vivid example of successful resistance against the enemy in darkness, which took place during a massive Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure. According to the Ukrainian Air Force command, the footage was filmed from the cockpit of a modern multi-role MiG-29 fighter jet, piloted by an experienced pilot with over a hundred successful sorties in his combat record. During this night operation, he managed to accurately hit the target—a Russian "Shahed" drone that was part of the enemy's missile or drone attack aimed at destroying strategic and vital Ukrainian infrastructure. The Air Force spokesperson emphasized at a press conference that this incident demonstrates the modern capabilities of Ukrainian aviation—it reflects not only the ability to maintain air defense but also a high level of pilot training. Military sources shared that pilot Yellowtail is a member of the tactical aviation brigade within the Western Air Command, with combat experience exceeding one hundred sorties in various combat conditions. He is one of the Ukrainian servicemen demonstrating courage, skill, and the high combat readiness of the Ukrainian Air Force. Additionally, it was reported that the night of May 21 was one of the most intense in recent times. The enemy reinforced their efforts with a massive attack—about 76 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were launched against Ukrainian targets, including "Shahed" kamikaze drones. Ukrainian forces managed to shoot down 22 drones, but 41 others were considered "locationally lost," meaning their hits on targets could not be confirmed. This again demonstrates a high level of resistance and highlights the challenges Ukrainian defenders faced while repelling the Russian drone assault during the evening twilight. The events of that night attest that modern Ukrainian aviation has all the capabilities to effectively counter enemy aviation and UAV attacks. This forms a foundation for strengthening air defense positions and attests to the high combat effectiveness and resilience of Ukrainian pilots—an inspiration for all Ukrainian defenders and a signal to the enemy that Ukraine is capable of defending itself even in the darkest times.