Enhancing defense against small drones

Drones, particularly small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are being used for reconnaissance and, increasingly, as attack platforms. Their small size and maneuverability make them hard to detect and target with conventional systems, such as radar and missiles. This has led to the development of more kinetic defense mechanisms, such as shotguns armed with specialized ammunition.

Read more: European gun makers trial small arms as drone stoppers

Shotguns, known for their short-range effectiveness and spread pattern, provide a reliable and cost-effective option for taking down drones, especially in situations where more advanced countermeasures might be too costly or impractical.

Shotguns, particularly those like the Benelli M4, have proven themselves to be versatile tools in counter-drone scenarios. Here’s why they are gaining attention:

Cost-effectiveness: Compared to advanced systems like missile defense or electronic jamming, shotguns offer an inexpensive alternative. A shotgun and 1,000 rounds of ALDA ammunition can cost around €3,000, a fraction of more advanced options.

Ease of use: Shotguns are simple to operate and require minimal training, making them accessible for rapid deployment in various military units.

Effective range: The ALDA ammunition allows shotguns to engage drones at distances between 87-131 yds. This makes them a viable solution for low-flying drones that pose an immediate threat.

Beyond shotguns, training with targets such as Nordic Clays is essential to refine the skills required to shoot down drones. Just as clay pigeon shooting sharpens accuracy and reaction time, practicing with Nordic Clays can simulate the erratic movement patterns of drones, allowing military and law enforcement personnel to improve their targeting and engagement tactics.

ALDA rounds are designed specifically for countering small drones. These rounds are:

Lightweight: Optimized for use against drones weighing less than 55 lbs.

High-Energy impact: ALDA rounds maintain enough velocity and impact force at longer distances to disable drones.

Adaptable: These rounds are compatible with widely-used military shotguns, making them a flexible addition to existing arsenals.

Shotguns versus drones: Key benefits

Precision and spread: While shotguns are known for their spread, making them forgiving in close-range scenarios, the addition of specialized ammunition such as buckshot or ALDA increases the precision needed for counter-drone tasks.

Multiple uses: In addition to drone defense, military shotguns can serve in other roles, such as breaching or personal defense, adding value to any force that adopts them.

Combat proven: In conflict zones such as Ukraine, both sides have used shotguns to neutralize drones, proving their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

Read more: European Defence Innovations: Integrating Small Arms and Advanced Cannons Against Modern Threats

European militaries, particularly those in NATO, are increasingly integrating small arms like shotguns into their defense strategies against drones. Manufacturers like Benelli Armi and FN Herstal are leading this charge, providing counter-drone solutions that are both effective and cost-efficient. These innovations are a direct response to the evolving threat of small drones, which are being used in increasingly sophisticated ways.

As drones continue to proliferate on the battlefield, counter-drone shotguns like Benelli’s M4 and specialized ammunition such as ALDA will play an essential role in mitigating this emerging threat. Training with Nordic Clays, combined with the use of advanced shotgun technology, will prepare military personnel to effectively neutralize drones in combat scenarios.

By integrating these tools into defense strategies, forces can ensure they are ready for the challenges posed by modern, agile threats like drones. Whether used for close defense or asset protection, shotguns are becoming a critical component in the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare against drones.