Shahed-type drones, originally designed in Iran, have become a key element of Moscow's long-range strike arsenal against Ukraine, frequently used to target cities, infrastructure, and energy facilities.

In July 2025, Russia launched approximately 6,200 Shahed-type loitering munitions against Ukraine - a new monthly record - as part of its tactic to exhaust Ukrainian air defences. Source: UK Defence Intelligence update dated 13 August on X (Twitter),

Thus far in August, the intensity of Russian strikes on Ukraine appear to have eased. The first 11 days of this month have seen Moscow launch a daily average of 74 drones and one missile into Ukraine, compared with record-breaking July figures of 201 drones and around six missiles per day.