Russian state media has revealed the creation of a new airborne unit tasked with intercepting Ukrainian drones using modified civilian aircraft.
In a recent TV segment aired, Russian Central Television showcased a formation of Cessna 172 light planes outfitted with machine guns and onboard targeting systems, marking another adaptation in Russia’s response to continued long-range drone attacks.
The report detailed how these retrofitted aircraft are intended to serve as mobile air patrol platforms, targeting Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating deep within Russian territory.
Video footage two featured Cessna 172 aircraft modified with under-fuselage PKT machine guns, a Soviet-era weapon typically mounted on armored vehicles. According to the broadcast, each aircraft includes a fire control operator who tracks targets via a cockpit display and opens fire once locked onto the drone.
Operators claimed coordination with Russian ground-based air defense units has been established to prevent friendly fire incidents. The crew also reportedly prefers to engage drones over open water to reduce collateral damage from debris falling on populated areas.
The initiative appears to mirror earlier Ukrainian tactics. In 2023, the Ukrainian military began adapting civilian aircraft such as the Yak-52, Zlin Z-137 Agro Turbo and various ultralights for reconnaissance and limited air defense missions, including countering Iranian-designed Shahed loitering munitions.
The report framed the development as a necessary response to the expanding use of long-range drones by Ukraine, which continue to strike oil refineries, airfields, and defense facilities across Russian territory.