How to counter the popular fiber-optic drones—first, don't cut the cables

A recent video circulating on the social media platform X shows a dramatic encounter on the Ukrainian battlefield: a Russian soldier successfully ambushed a Ukrainian fiber-optic FPV drone equipped with small grenades.The footage captures the drone’s distinctive buzzing sound as it swoops low, sending an unsettling chill across the front line. As the drone passes over a patch of brush, the Russian soldier suddenly rises, spots the fiber-optic cable connecting the drone to its operator, and cuts it with scissors. Deprived of control, the drone crashes nearby, detonating its onboard explosives in a fiery blast.

Unlike conventional FPV drones, which rely on radio signals to maintain operator control, fiber-optic drones are immune to electronic jamming. Traditional radio-based drones are highly vulnerable—studies suggest up to 75% of FPV drones can be lost due to interference or frontline electronic warfare measures. To overcome this, Russia began deploying fiber-optic drones more than a year ago, first in limited numbers, and then at scale.

Ukraine has since followed suit. According to Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Minister of Digital Transformation, there are now over 15 companies in Ukraine actively producing fiber-optic drones, underscoring their rising importance in drone warfare.

While the viral video demonstrates a creative field tactic, cutting the fiber-optic cable is an extremely risky and impractical solution. It requires close proximity to the drone, exposing soldiers to explosives, shrapnel, and small arms fire. Moreover, as drone operators deploy longer and stronger fiber cables, the feasibility of such physical interventions becomes even more limited.

To address this challenge, advanced directed-energy countermeasures offer a more effective and secure alternative. The Hobit HL20 Laser Anti-Drone System provides a reliable solution by projecting concentrated heat beams that can disable drones within three seconds at distances of up to two kilometers. Unlike conventional jamming, this system directly neutralizes both radio-controlled and fiber-optic drones without requiring physical contact, reducing risks to personnel and ensuring continuous protection for military units, police forces, and critical infrastructure.