Tank and FPV drone: Evolution of protective measures in the Russian Federation, 2022–2026

The article examines the evolution of protective measures for Russian tanks against FPV drones in 2022–2026. Two main directions are analyzed: passive structures, from improvised “cope cages” to industrial all-aspect kits based on chain, cable, and rubber-fabric screens, and active protection systems, including the Arena-M modernized to intercept diving munitions and low-speed drones. It is shown that protective measures were reactive in character and systematically lagged behind the evolution of FPV drone tactics. By 2026 a transition had begun to the series equipping of tanks with all-aspect passive kits and the modernized active protection system; however, their combined employment on a single vehicle is complicated by mutual interference.