Ukraine Air Force: Hellfire Missiles Now Mounted on Ground Trucks

Ukrainian forces have integrated American laser-guided missiles into ground vehicles for air defense operations. Yurii Ihnat, head of communications for the Air Force Command, confirmed the deployment strategy during an interview on the RBC-Ukraine podcast TSE BAZA.

Ihnat stated that military units utilize a combination of systems to counter Russian aerial threats. He described the inventory as including FrankenSAM systems alongside vehicles equipped with Hellfire missiles. The specific models of the ground vehicles were not disclosed, nor were the quantities or specific missile modifications used.

The Air Force employs these ground-based assets primarily near cities and critical infrastructure. Ihnat explained that aviation units operate in areas where ground air defense is inactive to prevent friendly fire incidents. Teams with man-portable air defense systems also operate in these protected zones.

Electronic warfare equipment plays a supporting role in the defense network. Ihnat noted that many Russian assets are successfully jammed because their systems lack adequate protection or appropriate antennas. He added that soldiers occasionally use assault rifles to down drones, though such events are rare.

The AGM-114 Hellfire is a family of American guided missiles designed for various targets. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, confirms that Hellfire II variants feature semi-active laser homing. The missiles can be launched from helicopters, aircraft, ground vehicles, and vessels.

Ukrainian forces previously reported using American Tempest mobile surface-to-air missile systems. These vehicles are equipped with two AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles. Soldiers reported shooting down 21 Russian Shahed drones with these systems in January 2026.