Russian forces are testing an experimental system designed to counter the growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, according to reports from Russian media. The system, described as a “fan-style” defense, utilizes rapidly rotating cables to intercept and disable incoming drones.
The prototype, reportedly assembled by Russia’s 70th Motor Rifle Regiment, is undergoing trials in the occupied parts of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region. Footage shows the system mounted on a small ground robotic vehicle, suggesting it is a mobile platform designed specifically for testing the concept. The core idea is that the high-speed spinning cables will act as a mechanical barrier, striking or deflecting drones before they can reach their targets.
The concept of using rotating elements to defend against drones is not new, with similar ideas appearing in Russian patents as early as late 2023, and a modified version registered again in May 2025. However, the current implementation appears to favor cables over rigid blades, a design choice potentially offering advantages in terms of weight and reduced risk of damage upon contact with the ground. Analysts note, however, that the mechanism requires significant internal space and questions remain about its effectiveness in protecting the vehicle’s upper surfaces from aerial attacks.
The development comes as both Russia and Ukraine increasingly rely on drones for reconnaissance, attack, and electronic warfare. Russia has been adapting its drone technology, integrating fiber-optic cables into cheaper drones to extend their range and resilience to jamming. These fiber-optic drones, as reported in April 2025, are proving difficult to counter with traditional electronic warfare techniques, prompting a technological arms race on the battlefield.
Ukraine is also deploying advanced counter-drone technologies. The Ukrainian defense firm First Contact, in collaboration with a German partner, recently delivered a new batch of mobile electronic warfare systems – the FC.K – to the Armed Forces. These systems are designed to detect and jam drone control links and video feeds, offering a different approach to neutralizing the drone threat. The FC.K is mounted on a Kozak-5 armored chassis, allowing crews to operate remotely for increased safety.
The effectiveness of the Russian cable-based system remains uncertain. Footage indicates the prototype is currently limited to operation on flat terrain, raising concerns about its performance in real-world battlefield conditions where vegetation, uneven ground, and obstacles could hinder its operation. The system’s ability to consistently intercept fast-moving drones, particularly smaller First-Person View (FPV) drones, also remains to be seen.
Beyond defensive measures, Ukraine has also been actively targeting Russian drone infrastructure. Recent intelligence operations conducted by Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (HUR) have focused on destroying components of Russia’s short-range air defense network and radar systems, disrupting Russia’s ability to detect and respond to drone attacks. These coordinated strikes, carried out in challenging winter conditions, have reportedly damaged or destroyed key assets.
The emergence of fiber-optic drones has presented a significant challenge for both sides. Traditional electronic jamming techniques are largely ineffective against these drones, forcing both Russia and Ukraine to develop new countermeasures. Ukraine is reportedly employing infrared and sound-based detection methods to locate and neutralize these “un-jammable” drones, while Russia is pursuing kinetic solutions like the rotating cable system.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is rapidly evolving the landscape of modern warfare, with drones playing an increasingly central role. The development and deployment of innovative counter-drone technologies, such as the Russian cable system and the Ukrainian electronic warfare platforms, highlight the urgency with which both sides are adapting to this new reality. The success or failure of these systems will likely have significant implications for the future of drone warfare and the broader balance of power in the region.
While Russia continues to experiment with improvised solutions, analysts suggest they will likely continue to pursue such designs in the near term. The conflict underscores the importance of technological adaptation and innovation in modern warfare, as both sides seek to gain an edge in the ongoing struggle.
