The Institute for the Study of War reports that the russian occupation army has taken advantage of Ukraine's lack of air defense systems by increasing the number of attacks on the frontline and targeting the country's energy infrastructure. This has forced Ukraine to make difficult decisions between defending the frontline and large population centers.

"russian ground forces are taking advantage of their ability to use air strikes on Ukrainian positions on the front lines to achieve slow but steady gains", analysts say.

According to experts, the lack of air defense has facilitated russia's use of guided and unguided bombs for tactical effect, including during the capture of Avdiivka in mid-February 2024 and in the current offensive near Chasiv Yar. Valeriy Ryabykh, Development Director at Defense Express, noted that Ukraine's air defense system cannot shoot down ballistic targets, which is a significant challenge for the country's defense.