Russia Upgrades Gerbera Decoy Drones with Automatic Evasion Systems Against Ukraine FPV Interceptors

Russia has started equipping its Gerbera decoy drones with automatic evasion systems to counter Ukrainian FPV interceptors. This development represents a tactical adaptation, as operators are adding sensor suites and programmed flight responses to low-cost Gerbera loitering drones so they can detect and react to small, fast interceptors flown by operators using first-person-view (FPV) systems.

The Gerbera began as a low-cost, fixed-wing loitering UAV often used as a decoy. Launched in groups to force defenders to reveal radar coverage or expend interceptors, it is inexpensive compared with larger attack drones. Ukrainian FPV interceptors—small multirotor or winged drones piloted by a live video feed—have proven effective at colliding with or destroying these decoys. To reduce losses, some Gerberas have been fitted with what are being called automatic evasion systems.

An automatic evasion system on a Gerbera is not a single device but an integrated package of sensors and software. These typically include small auxiliary cameras or optical sensors, sometimes supplemented by radio-frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) detectors, all linked to the drone’s autopilot through a microcontroller running a short set of evasive routines. The sensors monitor approaching objects; when a likely interceptor is detected—based on relative motion, size, or bearing—the autopilot performs a pre-programmed maneuver such as a sharp turn, dive, or climb to break the interceptor’s pursuit path.

In practice, this is effective because many FPV interceptors rely on a straight pursuit path guided by video tracking. A sudden, automated change of direction by the target can cause the interceptor to miss or lose lock. Since the reaction is automatic and near-instant, it can outperform a human operator’s response time. Most systems appear to use simple detection logic rather than complex AI—based on motion thresholds and predefined flight scripts—which ensures quick reactions and minimal processing load.

Equipping Gerberas with these kits changes the operational trade-off. A drone fitted with cameras, processors, and detectors costs more per unit, but each surviving decoy maintains the saturation effect of a mass strike and forces defenders to expend additional interceptors. The main capability gained is higher survivability against low-cost pursuit drones while keeping the Gerbera’s basic navigation and flight functions intact.

Typical specifications of the Gerbera remain consistent across batches. It is a lightweight, fixed-wing airframe with an approximate wingspan of 2 to 2.5 meters, powered by a small gasoline engine with a pusher propeller. The drone’s maximum speed is around 120–160 km/h, and its payload capacity allows the addition of light sensors and electronics. The evasion module itself generally includes rear- and top-mounted cameras, a miniature autopilot board, and basic processing software to execute maneuvers. These components fit within the Gerbera’s payload limit and can be swapped or updated quickly in field conditions.

Limitations remain. Optical sensors can register false positives from birds or debris and lose effectiveness in low light or fog. Aggressive evasive maneuvers risk loss of stability or navigation errors, while mild reactions may still allow impacts. 

Ukrainian FPV interceptors now face these new challenges in targeting automated-evasion Gerberas. In response, interceptor teams are updating their systems with improved pursuit algorithms and refined pilot techniques—adding features like predictive tracking, rapid reacquisition routines, and coordinated multi-drone attack profiles to regain engagement success. These updates restore some effectiveness, but practical difficulties—sensor blind spots, environmental conditions, and the continual need for tactical adaptation—mean the challenge is reduced, not eliminated.