Russia Converts Cessna Planes Into ‘Hunters’ for Ukrainian Drones

Russia has modified light-engine Cessna aircraft to combat Ukrainian drones.

Footage capturing the combat upgrades appeared in a report on the Russia 1 state TV channel.

Two machine guns were mounted under the fuselage, turning the civilian planes into improvised drone interceptors.

The cockpit was fitted with targeting and aiming systems to improve accuracy against aerial targets.

Detecting and destroying low-flying, autonomous drones operating at altitudes of 80-150 meters remains a challenge.

Ground-based radar can detect such drones, but destroying them requires mechanical means such as missiles, artillery, or small arms — a task complicated by low flight altitudes and distant flight routes.

One of the most promising solutions is the use of light, maneuverable aircraft capable of detecting, tracking, and destroying drones.

Recently, Russia formed its first Bars-Sarmat flight unit to intercept Ukrainian long-range drones that had penetrated deep into its territory.

The unit is equipped with Soviet-era Yak-18T and Yak-52 training aircraft.

The tactic of using light aircraft is not new — Russia adopted it from the Ukrainian military.

In Ukraine, Yak-52 sports planes are already used to destroy reconnaissance drones and Shahed drones as they approach major cities.

These aircraft have a low stall speed of 100–140 km/h, allowing them to effectively pursue slow targets and maneuver at low speeds.