This video from Ukraine shows a US-provided, Humvee-mounted Avenger anti-aircraft system being used to take down a Shahed 136 drone, provided to Russia by Iran. In a sense, it is a bit of a proxy showdown as both sides of the conflict are pitting weapons from other countries against those countries’ adversaries. The Avenger has been in service in the US since 1989, but with limited opportunities to be used in a true anti-air role, the Avenger was often fitted with an extra machine gun to serve as a support and observation platform. Four Avenger systems were provided to Ukraine in 2022, with another eight as of January 2023, in order to counter the increase of cruise missile and Shahed usage by Russia.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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