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Ukraine Is Now Using Leleka-100 Drones That Evade Russian Interceptors in Real-Time Combat
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian reconnaissance drones equipped with onboard systems designed to evade Russian interceptor drones are now operating on the battlefield, according to Defense Express on January 17.
Citing open-source intelligence channel “Potuzhnyi Informator,” Defense Express reported that a downed Leleka-100 drone was identified with a factory-installed “Snich” evasion system.
This marks a notable step in the adaptation of Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to counter increasingly common threats from Russian FPV interceptor drones.
The Snich system, developed by Ukrainian drone manufacturer Deviro, is designed to detect incoming threats and assist the drone in maneuvering to avoid them.
While the precise effectiveness of the system has not been independently verified, it reportedly complicates target acquisition for enemy drone pilots, thereby lowering the risk of successful interception.
The use of such anti-interception systems by Ukrainian forces reflects a broader trend already observed on the Russian side. According to Defense Express, similar evasion technologies have been integrated into Russian reconnaissance UAVs since mid-2024, moving from ad hoc field modifications to standard factory equipment.
This has resulted in what the outlet refers to as “aerial dogfights” between surveillance and interceptor drones on both sides of the war.
The Snich system was first publicly discussed in September 2025. Early versions reportedly relied on visual detection via camera, but faced limitations due to blind spots. As a result, a parallel version incorporating electronic intelligence (ELINT) and potential electronic countermeasures was also in development at the time.
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Ворожі ZALA вже достатньо давно обвішують «камерою заднього виду», яка розпізнає зенітні дрони та ініціює захисні маневри.
Чи заважає це влаштовувати «Дронопад»? Так.
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The photograph of the Leleka-100 published by “Potuzhnyi Informator” appears to confirm the presence of a camera module consistent with the Snich system, though it remains unclear whether this specific unit included the enhanced ELINT-based variant.
The available image does not provide conclusive evidence on whether the system was successfully engaged prior to the drone’s downing.
Earlier, Ukraine unveiled the upgraded Ruta Block 2 cruise missile developed by Destinus, featuring extended range, a heavier warhead, enhanced stealth shaping, and AI‑assisted multimode guidance. The missile has already been used operationally by Ukrainian forces since late 2024, though details of its combat employment remain limited.
