Russia uses Banderol loitering munitions to test Ukraine air defences
By The BriefBrief
Russia deployed Banderol (S8000) loitering munitions during an overnight large-scale attack on Ukraine on Thursday. Ukraine’s Air Force said the Banderols were intercepted in a barrage that also included cruise missiles and Shahed-type drones, reflecting Russia’s growing use of low-cost weapons that can strain air defences.
WHO:Russia; Ukraine’s Air Force
WHAT:Russia used Banderol (S8000) loitering munitions in an overnight large-scale attack on Ukraine; Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting them.
WHEN:Reported Aug 20, 2026 at 6:29 AM ET
WHERE:Ukraine
WHY:The Banderol is designed to overwhelm Ukraine’s air defences by forcing the use of scarce, costly interceptors.
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