On the night of February 15-16, Russian forces executed a coordinated attack against Ukraine, utilizing advanced weaponry including four Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles, an Iskander-M ballistic missile, and a barrage of drones. Reports indicate that Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted or jammed two of the Zircon missiles and neutralized 52 drones, which included various types such as Shahed loitering munitions. The assault targeted 8 different locations, leading to the detection of missile and drone impacts on Ukrainian soil.

As stated by the Ukrainian Air Force, the attacks involved significant mobilization from their defense forces, which included aircraft, anti-aircraft units, electronic warfare capabilities, unmanned systems, and ground fire teams. This extensive response highlights Ukraine's ongoing efforts to fortify their defense against continuous aerial threats posed by Russian military operations. The Ukrainian military's ability to respond effectively to such attacks has been crucial in mitigating potential damage.

The implications of these attacks are profound as they not only exacerbate the already tense situation in the region but also raise questions about the effectiveness of international support for Ukraine's defense capabilities. The use of hypersonic missiles signifies an escalation in the technology being deployed in this conflict, which could lead to a reassessment of defense strategies by both sides as the war continues to unfold.