Ukraine’s 156th Air Defense Regiment has officially deployed the British-made Terrahawk Paladin short-range air-defense system, marking its first confirmed appearance on the battlefield. The system was originally promised to Kyiv in 2023.
High-Tech Counter-Drone Platform
Mounted on a MAN HX chassis, the Terrahawk Paladin features a 30mm Mark 44 Bushmaster II cannon, 360-degree radar, and an electro-optical targeting suite. Its night-vision channel allows effective operation in low-visibility conditions. The system operates fully autonomously and can detect, track, and engage air, ground, and maritime targets at short ranges.
Enhanced Protection and Mobility
Imagery of Ukrainian-operated vehicles shows additional protective panels around the radar, safeguarding critical sensors from drone attacks and fragmentation. The MAN HX chassis ensures rapid deployment and high mobility, allowing the platform to operate as a mobile or quickly unloaded system.
Strengthening Ukraine’s Air Defense Capabilities
The Terrahawk Paladin enhances Ukraine’s short-range air-defense network against Russian drones, including Shaheds, Lancets, and small reconnaissance UAVs. Its low-cost, rapid-reaction, and modular design provides an effective solution against high volumes of inexpensive unmanned aircraft. Western governments and manufacturers continue to accelerate deliveries of mobile gun systems, radar-guided weapon stations, and electronic warfare platforms to strengthen Ukraine’s air-defense coverage.
