Footage shows Finnish-made Crotale air-defence missile in action on Ukrainian battlefield

Ukraine's 1st Air Defence Brigade shared video evidence of a Finnish-modified Crotale short-range air-defence missile being employed in combat. The Ilmatorjuntaohjus 90M is installed on a domestically produced Sisu XA-181 armoured vehicle and was seen driving to a firing position, launching the missile, and witnessing its aerial explosion, possibly hitting the intended target. The recording provides no details on the date or exact location of the action.

The Crotale system, originally French, can engage cruise missiles, helicopters, drones and low-altitude fighters up to 20 kilometres away. Finland bought the original units in the early 1990s and upgraded their radar and mobility in 2009. While mass production for conscripts ended in 2024, training and reserve use are slated to continue. Finland's defence ministry has not disclosed specifics of the aid package sent to Ukraine for security reasons.