Russian drone system teams have mastered the method of intercepting heavy multi-rotor aircraft using controlled aerial ramming. Operators of high-speed FPV drones guide their aircraft into collisions with large hexacopters, known unofficially among specialists as "Baba Yaga," neutralizing them before they complete their mission. Simultaneously, visual and thermal imaging controls are used to engage low-flying targets with small arms.
The hexacopters were detected using radar stations and aerial observation posts. After detection, the data on these targets was transmitted to the air defense FPV drone teams, who destroyed the aerial threat by ramming.
To increase interception efficiency, teams with small arms equipped with thermal imaging modules are involved. Infrared sensors detect the thermal signature of the drone's engine, allowing for accurate tracking of the target in limited visibility conditions, at dusk, or in challenging weather.
According to the 11th Army Corps of the Ground Forces of the Russian Federation, operators neutralized over 90 heavy R-18 hexacopters, nicknamed "Baba Yaga" in operation, in one month. These aircraft are characterized by high payload capacity and are used for delivering equipment or monitoring extended objects.
