New footage circulating online shows the Russian military deploying handheld “Yolka” interceptor drone systems in combat, indicating widespread operational use of the low-cost anti-drone weapon designed to target enemy reconnaissance and FPV drones.The latest video shows a Russian soldier launching the compact interceptor from a pistol-like handheld device, before it autonomously tracks and attacks its target.The Yolka system first attracted public attention during Russia’s Victory Day military parade in May 2025, when a security officer standing near President Vladimir Putin was seen carrying a compact drone-like device, which analysts later speculated might be the Yolka system or a related variant.Video evidence of the drone’s use first surfaced in September 2024, highlighting its role as a portable “spot-and-forget” interceptor designed to counter the growing threat posed by battlefield drones.Unlike conventional interceptors, the Yolka does not carry explosive warheads. Instead, it relies on direct kinetic impact to destroy or disable hostile drones, reducing the risk of collateral damage.The interceptor has a cylindrical body with two sets of X-shaped wings and is powered by four electric motors mounted on its rear. Open-source reports indicate that it uses a bi-spectral seeker that combines thermal and optical tracking with an artificial intelligence module.“Once the seeker locks onto the target, the drone transitions to autonomous flight.”The AI-assisted guidance system allows the drone to independently track targets after launch and is reported to be resistant to conventional electronic warfare jamming.According to available specifications, Yolka can attack targets at ranges of up to 3-4 kilometers and reach speeds of approximately 200-250 km/h. The interceptor reportedly weighs between 1 and 3 kg, while the entire launcher system weighs about 6 kg, allowing it to be operated by a single soldier.Open-source assessments estimate each Yolka interceptor to cost around US$500, making it a relatively inexpensive solution against increasingly common battlefield drones.The emergence of systems like Yolka reflects the growing emphasis on portable anti-drone weapons as militaries look for cost-effective ways to counter the widespread use of unmanned aerial vehicles in modern warfare.