International allies step up integration of counter-drone firearms technology

US Marine Corps with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit were seen using modified M4 carbines mounted with counter-drone targeting optics, while underway with San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland in the Pacific Ocean earlier this month.

In addition, US soldiers associated with the XVIII Airborne Corps conducted training and familiarisation with 5.56mm L-variant drone rounds designed to defeat small unmanned aerial systems at short ranges, at Oak Grove Training Center in North Carolina earlier this month.

In the Middle East, a rifle-mounted computerized small arms system developed by Israel Weapon Industries has reportedly already seen combat with Israeli Defense Forces in Gaza. That Arbel system reportedly increases hit probability against ground targets and low-signature aerial threats on infantry weapons.

Arbel, mounted to AR-15 designed rifle’s lower receiver, reportedly uses real-time sensing and micro processing to advise the shooter of a target faster and provide best shooting scenario without intervening with fire control, changing ammunition or changing the optics used.

Separately, Australian specialist ammunition manufacturer ARES Armaments Australia has previously announced intentions to supply counter-uncrewed aerial system ‘Rooster’ ammunition to NATO and AUKUS allies.

That ammunition is designed to turn in-service 5.56mm, 7.62mm or .50 machinegun small arms firearms into a counter UAS weapons.

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ARES chief executive officer Jason Murray, speaking to Defence Connect last year, said the ammunition provides a shotgun effects on drone targets using single projectile accuracy.

“It’s a timely and affordable solution to a growing threat. It has a devastating effect on Type 1 UAS but reduces the risk to personnel or civilians within the firing template,” he said.

“(There’s) no need to carry extra weapons, no extra training and no modifications to in-service rifles or belt-fed section weapons. Just increased protection for troops on the ground or civilians in urban areas.”

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.