Ukrainian Air Force Confirms Ground Deployment of US Hellfire Missiles

The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed on Monday that ground vehicles equipped with laser-guided American Hellfire missiles are now part of its air defense network. Yurii Ihnat, head of the Air Force Command's communications department, stated that these systems are deployed alongside other assets to counter Russian aerial threats.

Ihnat described the current mix of defenses as a combination of FrankenSAM systems and vehicles carrying Hellfire missiles. He did not specify the exact number of vehicles in service or the specific missile modifications used by the military. The Air Force relies on a layered approach where different systems operate based on the specific operational area.

The integration of these ground-based assets is designed to complement aviation operations. Ihnat explained that aircraft patrol zones where ground air defense is not active to prevent friendly fire incidents. Conversely, teams with man-portable air defense systems and other ground assets are positioned closer to cities and critical infrastructure to protect vital sites.

The AGM-114 Hellfire is a US-guided missile family developed by Lockheed Martin for engaging armored vehicles and air defense systems. The manufacturer notes that Hellfire II variants use semi-active laser homing and can be launched from helicopters, aircraft, ground vehicles, and vessels. Ukrainian forces have previously utilized American Tempest mobile surface-to-air missile systems equipped with these missiles.

In January 2026, Ukrainian soldiers reported downing 21 Russian Shahed drones using similar systems. Ihnat also noted that electronic warfare equipment plays a role in jamming Russian assets, while ground forces have occasionally used assault rifles to bring down drones, though such instances are rare. The command aims to position each defensive asset where it provides the highest effectiveness.