In one day, the latest Russian interceptor drone «Yolka» destroyed five enemy unmanned aerial vehicles, Matvey Ryapolov, a serviceman of the 838th anti-aircraft missile division of the 27th Guards motor rifle division of the Center grouping, told RIA Novosti.

According to him, the intercepted targets included a heavy drone of the «Baba Yaga» type, two FPV drones, and two strike UAVs. Interceptions were carried out at distances of up to one kilometer. He also noted that the air surveillance post is equipped with the Igla-10 man-portable air defense system and a heavy machine gun, which are used depending on the type of threat: a machine gun is employed during mass drone attacks, while single targets can be engaged using either the «Yolka» or MANPADS.

Information about the «Yolka» interceptor drone has recently appeared in Russian media. It is designed to counter small and medium-class UAVs and is described as a compact system used to intercept targets at low altitudes directly in the combat zone.

According to published data, its operating principle is based on kinetic interception, meaning the target is destroyed by direct high-speed collision without the use of explosives. This approach reduces the risk of collateral damage and simplifies the design.

Reports indicate that the system uses computer vision technologies and automatic target tracking. The operator directs the drone toward the target, after which interception can proceed with minimal human involvement. Optical-electronic systems are said to detect drones with a wingspan of about one meter at distances of several hundred meters.

According to open sources, the «Yolka» is launched using a reusable manual catapult, ensuring mobility and allowing deployment without heavy equipment or extensive preparation.

It is reported that the drone is already in use by the military, although detailed specifications, as well as information about the developer and production scale, remain limited in open sources. Media reports indicate that the system is intended to intercept FPV drones, reconnaissance UAVs, fixed-wing drones, and heavy multicopters.

Thus, «Yolka» is presented as a mobile counter-UAV system with a kinetic interception principle and elements of automation, although its real capabilities remain difficult to assess due to the lack of official data.