New Ukrainian receiver device intercepts live feeds from Russian drones

A Kyiv-based communications startup named CODE380 has built a small receiver that intercepts live camera feeds from Russian drones. The device is called the D·Vision SDR and weighs about 280 grams, helping Ukrainian troops track incoming aerial threats before they attack.

Device Features And Range

The software-defined radio scans frequencies between 500 MHz and 8.7 GHz without blind spots. It can transmit analogue video signals up to 10 kilometres away in the 540 MHz to 6 GHz range, while its range drops to 3.5 to 5 kilometres at higher frequencies. It specifically covers the 4.1 GHz to 4.5 GHz range used by Russian Molniya strike drones. The receiver operates passively by listening to unencrypted video feeds without sending out signals that could reveal user positions.

Limitations And Future Risks

Serhii 'Flash' Beskrestnov, an adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, warned in June that many detectors miss these frequencies. He also noted that Russia might shift to digital video or fibre-optic drones. In August 2026, reports emerged that some Russian Molniya drones use artificial intelligence and Nvidia chips to operate without radio signals, which will eventually limit the usefulness of passive receivers like this one.

Context

Electronic warfare plays a major role in modern conflicts, with both sides constantly working to intercept enemy communications while hiding their own signals. Portable detection gear helps frontline troops spot incoming unmanned aerial vehicles in time to take cover or deploy countermeasures.