In a dramatic escalation of Ukraine’s air defense efforts, the German-made Gapard anti-aircraft gun is proving to be a game-changer against relentless waves of Russian Shahed drones. With the ability to fire an astonishing 100 rounds per second, these Cold War-era vehicles are emerging as some of Ukraine’s most effective weapons in the ongoing battle for air superiority.

As Russian forces unleash increasingly destructive drone attacks, the stakes have never been higher. On July 4, Ukraine faced a staggering assault involving 539 Shahed drones, but thanks to the Gapards and other defenses, they successfully intercepted 268. Yet, the threat remains dire, with 63 drones managing to strike civilian targets, resulting in casualties and extensive damage. Just days later, another wave of 397 drones hit Ukrainian skies, with 29 penetrating defenses. The most alarming attack occurred on July 12, when 597 drones swarmed the country, prompting an extraordinary defensive response that saw 577 intercepted.

The Gapard’s dual 35mm Orlicon cannons create dense clouds of projectiles, making them particularly lethal against the 200 kg drones equipped with 90 kg warheads. With over 80 Gapards in operation, their low operational costs make them a vital asset in Ukraine’s arsenal. The German government has committed to resuming ammunition production to ensure these guns remain well-stocked, with contracts for hundreds of thousands of rounds already in place.

As the frequency and scale of drone assaults escalate, Ukraine’s air defense strategy is under immense pressure. The Kremlin’s willingness to absorb losses—accepting that 75% of its drone attacks may fail—highlights the urgency for Ukraine to bolster its defenses. With international support crucial, Ukraine continues to navigate a complex landscape of military diplomacy to secure the resources needed to combat this relentless aerial threat. The battle for the skies over Ukraine intensifies, and the Gapard guns are at the forefront of this high-stakes conflict.