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Ukrainian Forces Use FPV Drones Armed with Shotguns to Target Russian UAVs.
On December 28, several videos shared by Ukrainian forces on the Telegram channel @zsuwar showcased FPV (first-person view) drones equipped with shotguns shooting down Russian UAVs in mid-flight. This approach highlights the ongoing efforts by Ukrainian forces to employ all available means to address a growing battlefield threat posed by enemy FPV drones, which present significant challenges due to their versatility and destructive potential.
Screenshot from the video by Ukrainian forces showing a drone equipped with a shotgun shooting down an armed Russian FPV drone (Picture source: Telegram Channel @ZsuWar)
FPV drones have emerged as a critical threat in modern conflicts. These devices, characterized by their agility, high speed, and precise navigation capabilities, can be armed to attack ground targets or engage other drones in the air. Their low production costs and relative accessibility make them valuable assets for asymmetric operations. However, their small size and mobility complicate detection and interception, posing significant challenges for traditional defense systems.
To counter these threats, various tools have been developed by armed forces worldwide. These include electronic systems to disrupt communication between a drone and its operator, directed-energy weapons such as lasers, and kinetic measures like rifles or interceptor drones. Despite their effectiveness in specific scenarios, these countermeasures have limitations: electronic jamming is ineffective against pre-programmed drones, lasers require high precision and power, and kinetic solutions demand close-range engagement with the target.
Faced with Russia's extensive use of FPV drones, Ukrainian forces continuously adapt their strategies. The use of drones armed with shotguns provides a pragmatic solution for intercepting and destroying aerial threats. In the videos, Ukrainian drones approach their targets at high speed, fire with precision, and neutralize enemy UAVs before they can complete their missions. Although the reliability of this system is still under evaluation, initial demonstrations suggest promising results.
In November, a similar Ukrainian project involving anti-aircraft drones successfully neutralized over 400 Russian UAVs, including models like the Orlan, Zala, and Lancet loitering munitions. This underscores the importance of developing effective countermeasures tailored to evolving threats. The experience gained from these efforts could influence strategies in other nations facing similar challenges.
The use of FPV drones equipped with shotguns is part of a broader trend of innovation on the battlefield. These systems combine technological accessibility with operational flexibility, enabling Ukrainian forces to respond swiftly to dynamic threats. If scaled effectively, this approach could enhance defense capabilities against enemy drones while redefining the role of drones as multifunctional tools in modern warfare.
The integration of shotguns onto FPV drones marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s anti-drone strategies. With their ability to effectively neutralize hostile UAVs and the potential for large-scale production, these systems could reshape battlefield dynamics. This initiative demonstrates Ukraine's commitment to exploring practical and adaptable solutions to meet the technological challenges of contemporary warfare.