Ukraine is using vintage Yak-52 training planes to shoot down Russian Shahed drones.

These low-cost aircraft, some with wooden propellers, are flown by gunners who fire assault rifles from open cockpits.

With drones flying higher and faster, ground defenses are less effective.

Despite lacking radar, these crews rely on visual spotting and ground intel.

Their success highlights Ukraine's resourceful response to Russia's evolving drone tactics.