Alan Lushnikov, head of the Kalashnikov Concern, said heavy Baba Yaga-type hexacopters have become one of the main targets for Russian snipers in the conflict zone.

According to Lushnikov, the role of snipers in modern combat continues to change. He said there is now strong demand for rifles capable of effectively engaging large unmanned aerial vehicles.

Lushnikov described Baba Yaga drones as a priority target for Russian snipers and the rifles they use.

He also recalled that SVCh sniper rifles have been actively supplied to Russian troops since 2023. According to him, the weapon surpasses the SVD in accuracy, grouping and ease of use.

Lushnikov previously said the nature of combat in the conflict zone had changed significantly. He noted that rapid technological development can make certain drone models lose their relevance within a short period.

In June, Kalashnikov lead design engineer Andrei Chukavin said the SVCh had been fitted with standard bipods, a feature absent from the SVD. According to him, the addition further improves shooting accuracy.

He also said a low-noise firing device had been developed for the rifle to reduce the visibility of a shot by suppressing muzzle flash and lowering the sound level.