Special forces of Ukraine’s SBU Alpha unit have struck a devastating blow to Russia’s air defences in 2025, destroying roughly half of the Pantsir missile and gun systems.
The Pantsir is one of Moscow’s most advanced air-defence systems, designed to stop drones and missiles. One system costs $15–20 million — and the Alpha unit has wiped out billions of dollars worth of equipment.
“Systematic destruction of Pantsir opens corridors to hit targets deep behind enemy lines,” the SBU said.
Thanks to the strikes, Ukrainian forces can now target Russian bases, airfields, warehouses, and command centers with precision drones and long-range weapons.
The total value of all Russian air-defence systems destroyed by Alpha in 2025 is estimated at $4 billion.
SBU’s Alpha unit wipes out half of Russia’s Pantsir air defenses pic.twitter.com/KirQn5S6aY
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) February 14, 2026
The SBU says these strikes are not random — they are part of a carefully planned campaign to break through Russian air defence and tilt the battlefield in Ukraine’s favour.
With Russia’s air-defence shield crippled, Ukrainian drones and missiles are striking deeper, faster, and more accurately than ever.
“This is a strategic win that reshapes the battlefield,” analysts say.
From Kyiv to the frontlines, the message is clear: Russia’s “invincible” air defence is far from untouchable.
