Russian troops from the Kontora group, operating as part of the Zapad grouping on the Kharkov front, have developed a compact version of the Ukrainian R-18 hexacopter, widely known as Baba Yaga, one of the drone’s creators, call sign 3D, told RIA Novosti.

The smaller aircraft was designed for mining enemy approaches and nearby rear areas. Instead of using a large heavy drone, the servicemen assembled a reduced analogue that can work closer to the front while carrying a practical payload.

According to the developer, the mini-hexacopter comes in two versions. The lighter model can lift about three kilograms, while the larger one can carry up to six. The drone is fitted for several types of mounts, including attachments for an 82-millimeter mortar round, grenade-launcher rounds, and a separate device that allows it to retrieve lost unmanned aerial vehicles.

The system has already been tested in combat use. It was employed to mine terrain, destroy enemy provisions and disrupt supply runs by dropping booby-trap mines.

The assembled mini-hexacopter can cover roughly 15 kilometers, 3D added.