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U.S. Army Accelerates LUCAS Loitering Munition Deployment for Modern Battlefield Combat
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The U.S. Army and the Indiana National Guard have taken a low-cost attack drone from a public demo to combat deployment in just seven months, a rare pace that signals a shift in how the military fields new weapons. Announced April 8, 2026, the Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System, or LUCAS, has moved from concept to operational use, giving U.S. forces a fast, affordable strike option designed for real-world missions.

The rapid rollout matters because it puts scalable firepower into the hands of commanders at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems, strengthening the Joint Force in high-risk, contested environments. By proving that autonomous strike systems can be developed and fielded in months rather than years, LUCAS sets a precedent for how the U.S. can outpace adversaries and expand combat capabilities without relying on expensive platforms.

Related Topic: Iran Shahed-136 vs US LUCAS: Mass Drone Strikes Redefine Warfare in US-Iran Conflict

The Indiana National Guard leveraged the T-REX experimentation framework to rapidly transition the Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) from public demonstration to operational deployment in just seven months, showcasing a new benchmark in accelerated military innovation. (Picture source: U.S. Army)

The LUCAS loitering munition was first unveiled in July 2025 at a Pentagon courtyard demonstration led by the Department of War and was operationally employed by February 2026 during Operation Epic Fury. Enabled by the T-REX (Technology and Readiness Experimentation) framework, this compressed timeline demonstrates a new acquisition model focused on battlefield urgency, directly improving readiness and deterrence through rapid integration of emerging technologies.

The LUCAS drone represents a new class of expendable or attritable uncrewed combat systems designed to deliver precision effects at significantly lower cost than traditional manned or high-end unmanned platforms. While detailed specifications remain limited, the system is understood to integrate autonomous navigation, modular payload configurations, and network-enabled targeting, allowing it to operate in distributed formations or as part of manned-unmanned teaming constructs. This capability directly supports U.S. Army concepts such as Multi-Domain Operations (MDO), where mass, survivability, and adaptability are critical against peer adversaries.

LUCAS is a long-range loitering attack munition, also known as a one-way attack drone, developed by U.S. company SpektreWorks and designated FLM 136, designed to loiter over a target area before executing a precision strike by impact. The system reportedly operates for up to 6 hours, carries an approximately 18 kg payload, and can range beyond 350 nautical miles, enabling deep-strike missions against high-value targets such as air defense systems, missile launchers, and command nodes. During Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command employed LUCAS drones in coordinated strikes against Iranian military infrastructure, including command-and-control facilities, air defenses, and launch sites, demonstrating their role as a low-cost force multiplier capable of saturating and penetrating layered defenses without risking manned aircraft.

Central to this rapid development cycle is the T-REX framework, overseen by the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering. Unlike traditional acquisition pathways that often span years or decades, T-REX compresses development through iterative prototyping, real-time operator feedback, and direct collaboration between engineers, warfighters, and procurement authorities. The Indiana National Guard has emerged as a key operational hub for this model, providing realistic environments where experimental systems can be tested, refined, and validated under near-operational conditions.

The “speed of relevance” methodology underpinning T-REX prioritizes immediate battlefield applicability over prolonged development cycles. In the case of LUCAS, this meant rapidly identifying operational requirements, such as survivability in contested airspace, ease of deployment, and low unit cost, and translating them into deployable capability without waiting for full-spectrum program maturation. This approach aligns with broader Pentagon directives to counter near-peer threats by fielding large volumes of affordable systems that can saturate and complicate enemy defenses.

Operational deployment during Operation Epic Fury suggests that LUCAS has already moved beyond experimental status into active mission roles. Although specific mission profiles remain undisclosed, the system likely supports strike, reconnaissance, or electronic warfare missions in contested environments, where its low cost and autonomous capabilities reduce personnel risk while maintaining operational tempo. Its deployment also indicates growing confidence in autonomous engagement systems and their integration into joint force operations.

From an industrial perspective, LUCAS underscores a shift toward more agile defense innovation ecosystems. By leveraging non-traditional contractors, rapid-prototyping pipelines, and flexible funding mechanisms, programs like T-REX reduce dependence on legacy acquisition structures. This model could influence future procurement strategies, particularly for systems requiring rapid iteration in response to evolving threats, such as loitering munitions, counter-drone technologies, and electronic warfare platforms.

The implications for U.S. military strategy are significant. The ability to move from demonstration to deployment in under a year challenges adversaries’ assumptions about U.S. procurement timelines and introduces uncertainty into their planning cycles. Systems like LUCAS enable scalable force projection, allowing commanders to generate combat mass at lower cost while preserving high-end assets for critical missions. This approach is particularly relevant in potential high-intensity conflicts where attrition rates are expected to be high.

As the U.S. Army continues to refine its modernization priorities, the LUCAS program and the T-REX framework may serve as templates for future rapid acquisition efforts. The success of this initiative reinforces the importance of integrating innovation directly into operational units, bridging the gap between concept development and battlefield execution. For further context on U.S. Army modernization trends, see our analysis on [U.S. Army autonomous systems strategy], [rapid acquisition reforms], and [loitering munition developments].

Ultimately, the U.S. LUCAS loitering munition achievement signals a structural shift in how the U.S. military develops and fields combat capabilities. By prioritizing speed, affordability, and operational relevance, the Army is reshaping its force generation model to better respond to the demands of modern warfare, where technological advantage must be delivered not in years, but in months.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Ukraine Claims Leopard 2A6 Tank Destroyed Russian T-72B3 Tank at 5.5 km Record Range
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A battlefield claim circulating in defense circles asserts that a Ukrainian-operated Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank (MBT) destroyed a Russian T-72B3 tank head-on at a distance of 5.5 km, far beyond the typical range of tank engagements. If verified, the strike would mark one of the longest confirmed tank-on-tank kills and demonstrate exceptional accuracy and fire control under combat conditions.

Such a feat would underscore the extended reach and lethality of Western-supplied armor in Ukrainian service, potentially reshaping expectations for the range and survivability of armored warfare. It would also signal a growing ability to engage and defeat adversaries before they can effectively return fire, shifting both tactical calculations and battlefield risk.

Read also: Leopard 2A6 VS. T-90M - Advantages and weaknesses in upcoming battles in Ukraine

Ukrainian Army Leopard 2A6 main battle tank equipped with a 120mm L/55 smoothbore gun during field operations, highlighting advanced Western firepower and long-range engagement capability in Ukraine. (Picture source: Wikimedia)

The report, which has not yet been supported by imagery or sensor data as of early April 2026, alleges that Ukrainian forces employed a German-made Leopard 2A6 tank against a Russian T-72B3 tank under unknown conditions. The claim is operationally significant as it would demonstrate the ability of Ukrainian crews to exploit advanced NATO tank firepower and targeting systems at ranges well beyond standard engagement envelopes.

The Leopard 2A6, supplied to Ukraine by several European nations, is equipped with the Rheinmetall 120mm L/55 smoothbore gun, a system designed to maximize muzzle velocity and long-range lethality. Compared to earlier L/44 variants, the longer barrel increases projectile acceleration, enabling kinetic-energy rounds to exceed 1,700 m/s, depending on the ammunition. This translates into improved armor penetration at extended distances and reduced time-of-flight, a critical factor in dynamic battlefield conditions such as those observed in Ukraine.

The gun is optimized for NATO-standard 120mm APFSDS rounds, such as DM53 and DM63, among those supplied. These use high-density tungsten for armor defeat. The DM53 leverages the L/55's power, while the DM63 offers consistent performance in varying climates.

In addition to kinetic-energy rounds, Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 tanks can employ multi-purpose ammunition, such as the DM12 HEAT round, to engage fortified positions and light armored targets. The integration of programmable airburst munitions like the DM11 further enhances battlefield effectiveness, allowing Ukrainian crews to engage infantry in trenches, urban cover, or behind obstacles—capabilities that have proven particularly relevant in the trench-dominated combat environment of the conflict.

Germany, Portugal, and other European partners have contributed Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine as part of a coordinated NATO support effort initiated in early 2023. Germany committed 18 Leopard 2A6 tanks from Bundeswehr stocks, while Portugal supplied 3 additional units. These deliveries formed one of the most capable Western tank contingents in Ukrainian service, often grouped within dedicated battalion-level formations alongside other Leopard 2 variants and supported by extensive training, logistics, and ammunition packages. The introduction of Leopard 2A6 significantly enhanced Ukraine’s ability to conduct high-intensity armored operations with improved firepower, protection, and targeting capabilities compared to legacy Soviet-era systems.

From an Army Recognition (ARG) analytical perspective, the effectiveness of Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 tanks is not solely defined by firepower but by the integration of advanced fire-control and sighting systems. The EMES 15 stabilized gunner’s sight, combined with a laser rangefinder and thermal imaging, enables precise target acquisition in both day and night operations. The PERI R17A2 commander’s panoramic sight provides independent surveillance capability, allowing Ukrainian crews to conduct hunter-killer engagements, a critical advantage in high-intensity combat scenarios where rapid target acquisition is essential.

The digital fire control system continuously calculates ballistic solutions by integrating environmental and operational variables, including range, ammunition type, barrel wear, wind conditions, and vehicle attitude. This enables high first-round hit probability within typical combat ranges of 2 to 3 km. Thermal imaging systems further enhance survivability and lethality by enabling detection in degraded visual environments, including smoke, fog, and night-time operations frequently encountered on the Ukrainian battlefield.

However, extending an engagement to 5.5 km introduces significant constraints. At such distances, APFSDS rounds lose velocity and kinetic energy, reducing their ability to penetrate heavily protected frontal armor such as that of the T-72B3 equipped with Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor. This system is specifically designed to disrupt long-rod penetrators, complicating frontal engagements even at shorter distances.

Hit probability is another limiting factor. While Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 crews benefit from advanced Western fire-control systems, accuracy beyond 4 km is increasingly affected by atmospheric conditions, ballistic dispersion, and target motion. A successful engagement at 5.5 km would likely require a stationary or slow-moving target, a highly coordinated crew, and potentially external targeting support, such as drone-based observation, which Ukrainian forces widely use to enhance battlefield awareness and fire correction.

The geometry of the hit is also critical. A frontal kill at this distance would most plausibly involve striking a vulnerable area such as the lower glacis, turret ring, or mantlet, rather than penetrating the most heavily armored sections. Alternatively, the target may have been degraded, improperly oriented, or lacking effective reactive armor at the time of impact.

If confirmed, such an engagement would not redefine tank warfare doctrine but would illustrate the outer limits of what Ukrainian-operated Leopard 2A6 tanks can achieve when combining advanced Western firepower, modern ammunition, and increasingly sophisticated battlefield integration. It would also highlight the growing role of drone-assisted targeting and networked combat systems in extending engagement ranges in the Ukraine conflict.

From an ARG defense analysis standpoint, the claim underscores that while Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 tanks provide a significant qualitative advantage in firepower and targeting capability, real-world effectiveness remains governed by physics, environmental factors, and tactical conditions. Until verified by visual or sensor evidence, the reported 5.5-km frontal kill should be treated as an unconfirmed and potentially exceptional event rather than a new operational benchmark.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
SAMP/T NG vs Patriot: Europe Challenges U.S. Air Defense System in Missile Interception Race
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Europe’s SAMP/T NG air defense system is positioning itself as a serious challenger to the U.S. Patriot, offering advanced protection against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. Developed by the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium, the system combines next-generation radar with upgraded interceptors to deliver performance aligned with the most modern Patriot variants.

Beyond technical parity, SAMP/T NG marks a strategic shift for Europe, reducing reliance on U.S. systems while strengthening sovereign defense capabilities. As demand for integrated air and missile defense accelerates, the program underscores Europe’s push to secure its own skies with domestically controlled, high-end solutions.

Read also: Ukraine to Combat-Test SAMP/T NG Air Defense Against Russian Ballistic Missiles in 2026

SAMP/T NG and Patriot air defense systems are compared side by side, highlighting differences in radar coverage, missile performance, and ballistic missile interception capability as Europe advances a sovereign alternative to the U.S. standard. (Picture source: Editing Army Recognition Group)

At the core of the Italy/France SAMP/T NG is a fully digital AESA radar architecture built around the Thales Ground Fire 300 or Leonardo Kronos Grand Mobile High Power radar. These systems provide native 360 degree coverage without mechanical repositioning, a key advantage in scenarios involving attacks from multiple directions. Detection ranges are assessed at approximately 350 km or more for large aerial targets, with reduced performance against low observable or very small threats. The system is designed to track well over 100 targets simultaneously and guide multiple interceptors in parallel, allowing it to maintain effectiveness during saturation attacks.

By comparison, the U.S. Patriot air defense missile system has undergone a major radar evolution with the introduction of the LTAMDS radar, replacing older sector scanning systems such as the AN MPQ 65. LTAMDS also delivers full 360 degree coverage and is assessed to detect targets beyond 400 km depending on altitude and radar cross section, with a tracking capacity exceeding 100 targets. However, many Patriot systems in current service still rely on legacy sector-scanning radars, which can reduce effectiveness against coordinated multi-axis attacks unless deployed in optimized configurations.

Missile performance highlights a fundamental difference in system architecture. SAMP/T NG relies on a single interceptor, the Aster 30 B1NT, designed to handle both aerodynamic and ballistic threats. Against aircraft and cruise missiles, the engagement range is typically around 120 to 150 km. Against ballistic missiles, the effective interception range is shorter, generally estimated between 25 and 35 km, with interception altitudes above 20 km. The missile combines an active Ka-band seeker with high agility, enabling engagement of maneuvering targets, including supersonic cruise missiles and short- to medium-range ballistic missiles.

The Patriot system uses a dual missile approach. The PAC 2 GEM T provides long range engagement against aircraft with ranges up to approximately 160 km but has limited capability against modern ballistic threats. The PAC-3 MSE interceptor is optimized for ballistic missile defense and uses hit-to-kill technology. Its engagement range is typically between 60 and 100 km, depending on the engagement geometry, with interception altitudes estimated at 30-40 km. This gives Patriot a stronger capability against higher altitude and more demanding ballistic trajectories.

In terms of threat coverage, both systems are capable of engaging aircraft, UAVs, cruise missiles, and short to medium range ballistic missiles. Patriot has demonstrated this capability extensively in combat, including intercepting tactical ballistic and cruise missiles in real operational environments. SAMP/T has also seen operational deployment, including recent use in Ukraine, but the NG configuration with the B1NT interceptor and new radar has not yet been validated in combat conditions.

Mobility and deployment concepts further differentiate the systems. SAMP/T NG is designed for rapid deployment, reduced crew requirements, and high mobility, enabling flexible positioning and quick redeployment. This makes it particularly suitable for distributed defense concepts, where systems must frequently relocate to avoid detection and targeting. Patriot systems are generally heavier and require more logistical support, but benefit from a highly mature deployment doctrine and extensive global sustainment infrastructure.

From an operational standpoint, SAMP/T NG presents a strong solution for nations seeking flexibility and simplified force structure. The use of a single interceptor allows operators to engage any target without pre-planning missile allocation, a critical advantage in fast-evolving engagements involving mixed-threat salvos. Its full 360 degree radar coverage as a baseline capability also ensures consistent protection without requiring multiple radar orientations, improving survivability against complex attack profiles.

Patriot, on the other hand, offers a higher level of specialization and depth in ballistic missile defense. The PAC 3 MSE interceptor provides greater interception altitude and a direct hit to kill mechanism, which significantly increases lethality against ballistic threats, especially those with higher speeds or more complex trajectories. This makes Patriot particularly effective for protecting high-value assets against advanced missile threats, including quasi-ballistic or maneuvering systems.

Another decisive factor is combat validation and network integration. Patriot has decades of operational use, extensive interoperability within U.S. and allied forces, and continuous upgrades integrated into broader architectures such as integrated air and missile defense networks. This gives it a clear advantage in terms of reliability, doctrine maturity, and immediate readiness. SAMP/T NG, while technologically advanced, is still in the process of building that same level of operational credibility.

Industrial and strategic considerations also influence system selection. SAMP/T NG supports European defense sovereignty, strengthens the continental industrial base, and reduces dependence on external suppliers. This is particularly relevant for European nations seeking greater autonomy in critical defense capabilities. Patriot, in contrast, benefits from strong U.S. government support, established export mechanisms, and a large user community, which facilitates interoperability and long term sustainment.

Ultimately, SAMP/T NG can be seen as a highly modern, flexible, and mobile system optimized for multi-threat environments and distributed operations, offering strong performance with simplified logistics. Patriot remains a benchmark system with superior ballistic missile interception performance, proven combat effectiveness, and deep integration into allied defense structures. As both systems continue to evolve, the choice between them reflects not only technical considerations but also strategic priorities, including autonomy, alliance alignment, and the nature of the threats each nation expects to face.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Iran Shahed-136 vs US LUCAS: Mass Drone Strikes Redefine Warfare in US-Iran Conflict
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Iran’s Shahed-136 and the U.S.-developed FLM-136 LUCAS highlight a growing head-to-head shift in modern warfare, as recent combat in Operation Epic Fury exposed how both systems are shaping the battlefield through mass drone and missile attacks that challenge traditional air defenses.

The comparison underscores a decisive move toward saturation warfare, where success depends on affordability, range, and volume rather than advanced platforms alone. Iran’s combat-proven use of the Shahed-136 across multiple theaters contrasts with the U.S. push toward modular, networked systems like LUCAS, signaling an emerging competition defined by scale, persistence, and cost-efficient strike power.

Read also:U.S. Conducts First Combat Use of LUCAS Kamikaze Drone During Operation Epic Fury Against Iran

Comparative view of Iran’s Shahed-136 and U.S. FLM-136 LUCAS loitering munitions, highlighting design similarities, payload differences, and evolving roles in the U.S.–Iran conflict, where low-cost drone warfare is reshaping strike operations. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The comparison gained immediate battlefield relevance in early 2026 following the first combat deployment of LUCAS by U.S. forces during Operation Epic Fury against Iranian targets, marking a turning point in Washington’s adoption of attritable drone strike capabilities. Simultaneously, Iranian Shahed-136 systems continue to be used in persistent attacks against U.S. positions and regional infrastructure, confirming their maturity and effectiveness in operational environments.

From a design standpoint, both loitering munitions show a high degree of convergence. The FLM-136 LUCAS closely replicates the aerodynamic architecture of the Shahed-136, featuring a delta-wing configuration with wingtip vertical stabilizers and a blended fuselage. This layout is optimized for long-endurance missions while maintaining structural simplicity, enabling rapid production and scalability.

🇺🇸🇮🇷 The U.S. copied the Iranian Shahed-136 drone and turned it into the “Lucas” because the original design is brutally effective for the price, $35,000 vs $2.5 million for a single Tomahawk missile.

Iran nailed the basics: simple airframe, basic guidance, and a warhead that… https://t.co/rVqJOAd8L8 pic.twitter.com/hEFMyD4HsT
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) March 18, 2026

Both systems employ a rear-mounted pusher propeller engine, a configuration that reduces frontal infrared signature and complicates detection by short-range air defense systems. This design also improves aerodynamic efficiency by allowing a streamlined nose section, which contributes to extended operational range in contested environments.

Despite these similarities, important technical differences define their respective combat roles. The Shahed-136 is larger and optimized for maximum destructive effect, carrying a warhead typically estimated between 30 and 50 kg, with some variants reaching higher payloads. It is designed for strikes against fixed, high-value targets such as infrastructure and military facilities, where its payload and long range provide strategic impact.

In contrast, the FLM-136 LUCAS carries a smaller payload estimated between 18 and 20 kg, reflecting a different operational philosophy. Rather than focusing solely on destructive power, LUCAS is designed for modularity and adaptability. The platform can support multiple mission types, including strike, intelligence support, and communications relay, allowing integration into a broader networked battlespace.

Guidance systems further differentiate the two platforms. The Shahed-136 relies primarily on pre-programmed GPS and inertial navigation, making it highly effective for planned long-range strikes but limiting flexibility once launched. LUCAS, by comparison, is designed with more advanced communication architecture, enabling potential in-flight retargeting and integration with U.S. command and control networks, significantly enhancing responsiveness and coordination.

Range performance reflects differing strategic priorities. The Shahed-136 offers an estimated range of up to 2,000 km, allowing Iran to conduct deep strikes across the region. LUCAS operates within an estimated range of 800 to 1,500 km depending on configuration, balancing endurance with payload flexibility and system integration.

Combat experience highlights the maturity gap between the two systems. The Shahed-136 has been extensively used in Ukraine and across the Middle East, where it has demonstrated effectiveness in large-scale saturation attacks, particularly against critical infrastructure. Its ability to overwhelm air defenses through volume has forced opponents to expend significantly more expensive interceptors, creating a persistent cost imbalance.

LUCAS represents a rapid U.S. response to these battlefield realities. Its initial combat use focused on targeting Iranian air defense systems, command nodes, and drone launch infrastructure, indicating its role not only as a strike platform but also as a counter-force tool aimed at degrading enemy drone capabilities at their source.

Cost remains central to the effectiveness of both systems. The Shahed-136 is estimated to cost between €20,000 and €50,000 per unit, enabling mass deployment and sustained use. LUCAS, with an estimated cost of €30,000 to €35,000, aligns closely with this economic model while offering greater flexibility and integration potential.

In the context of the U.S.–Iran conflict, the Shahed-136 embodies a doctrine centered on volume and persistence, using large numbers of drones to overwhelm defenses and impose economic pressure. The U.S. approach with LUCAS reflects a more network-centric model, where affordability is combined with connectivity and multi-role capability to enhance operational effectiveness.

This comparison underscores a broader transformation in warfare. Low-cost loitering munitions have become central to modern military operations, shifting the balance from platform superiority to production capacity, integration, and sustainability. The competition between Shahed-136 and LUCAS illustrates how both sides are adapting to this reality, shaping the future of airpower through mass, cost-efficiency, and evolving operational concepts.

The growing competition between Iranian Shahed-136 and U.S. LUCAS signals a fundamental shift in warfare, where victory is no longer defined by technological superiority alone, but by the ability to produce, deploy, and sustain large volumes of low-cost, networked strike systems at scale.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
What Is LUCAS US Loitering Munition Makes Combat Debut against Iran in Operation Epic Fury
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U.S. forces have deployed the LUCAS loitering munition, built by SpektreWork, and designated by the manufacturer as FLM 136, during Operation Epic Fury, targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The move signals a deeper shift toward domestically produced, attritable unmanned strike capabilities that can operate in contested airspace without risking manned aircraft.

U.S. forces have fielded the LUCAS loitering munition, manufactured domestically by the U.S. Company SpektreWorks and designated by the manufacturer as FLM 136, during Operation Epic Fury to enhance long-range precision strike options against Iranian military infrastructure. The loitering munition’s operational debut underscores the United States’ growing emphasis on attritable unmanned strike platforms designed to penetrate layered air defenses while limiting exposure of manned aircraft in one of the most heavily defended regions in the Middle East. By relying on U.S.-produced loitering munitions with modular payload flexibility and extended loiter capability, commanders gain a scalable tool for time-sensitive targeting without committing high-value crewed assets.
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The U.S.-manufactured LUCAS FLM 136 loitering munition is a long-range, six-hour-endurance unmanned strike drone built by SpektreWorks, capable of carrying an 18 kg (40 lb) payload over 350 nautical miles (648 km) to conduct precision one-way attacks against air defenses, missile launchers, and hardened military targets. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

Operation Epic Fury, launched jointly by the United States and Israel in late February 2026, is designed to degrade Iran’s integrated air defense systems, ballistic missile forces, and command and control architecture. The campaign integrates stealth aircraft, stand-off cruise missiles, electronic warfare, and unmanned systems in synchronized strike cycles aimed at fracturing Tehran’s defensive depth. Within this framework, the FLM 136 LUCAS serves as a persistent loiter-and-strike asset capable of identifying, tracking, and engaging time-sensitive targets deep inside defended territory while compressing the sensor-to-shooter chain.

The operational groundwork for LUCAS employment in the region predates Epic Fury. On December 16, 2025, a Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System successfully launched from the flight deck of the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) while operating in the Arabian Gulf. The drone was operated by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s Task Force 59. He served with Task Force Scorpion Strike, a one-way attack-drone squadron deployed to the Middle East to enhance regional security and deterrence. That maritime launch demonstration confirmed the platform’s flexibility for sea-based operations and its compatibility with distributed naval strike concepts, directly informing its subsequent employment in the current campaign.

The platform, known operationally as LUCAS, is commercially designated FLM 136 by SpektreWorks, an Arizona-based U.S. defense company specializing in unmanned combat systems. The aircraft measures 3 meters (9.8 ft) in length with a wingspan of 2.5 meters (8.2 ft). It has an empty weight of 31.75 kilograms (70 lb) and a maximum takeoff weight of 81.5 kilograms (180 lb), allowing for significant fuel carriage and modular payload integration within a compact, transportable airframe.

According to manufacturer performance data, the FLM 136 offers approximately 6 hours of endurance, powered by a 215 cc carbureted engine. Cruise speed is rated at 102 km/h (55 knots), with a dash speed of 185 km/h (100 knots) for rapid repositioning or terminal attack. The operational ceiling exceeds 3,000 meters density altitude (10,000 ft DA), placing it above the engagement envelope of some short-range air defense systems while remaining below traditional medium-altitude UAV bands. Under unrestricted command and control conditions, the platform has a published range of 350 nautical miles, equivalent to approximately 648 kilometers (403 miles), confirming its classification as a long-range loitering system capable of deep-strike from standoff launch points.

Launch is conducted via a pneumatic rail system or rocket-assisted takeoff, eliminating the need for runways and enabling deployment from austere forward positions or naval decks. The system is described as fully autonomous from takeoff to landing, with a landing distance of approximately 30.5 meters (100 ft) in recoverable configurations. SpektreWorks emphasizes an open payload architecture and small operational footprint, allowing rapid reconfiguration for strike, surveillance, or threat-emulation roles.

In strike configuration, the FLM 136 can carry a maximum payload of 18 kilograms (40 lb). This payload class supports high-explosive fragmentation or shaped-charge warheads capable of neutralizing radar arrays, mobile surface-to-air missile launchers, ballistic missile transporter erector launchers, fuel depots, and reinforced command facilities. During terminal engagement, the aircraft transitions from loiter to a steep dive profile, combining explosive yield with kinetic energy to maximize structural penetration and destructive effect against hardened or relocatable military targets.

Within Operation Epic Fury, LUCAS has been employed to suppress and attrit Iranian air defense nodes that complicate manned air operations. Its six-hour loiter window enables persistent surveillance over suspected missile deployment corridors, allowing operators to wait for identification before committing to strike. This flexibility is critical against mobile systems that can relocate between traditional strike cycles. Compared to high-cost stand-off cruise missiles, the FLM 136's lower unit cost enables sustained operational tempo without rapidly depleting strategic munition stockpiles.

Operationally, the LUCAS loitering munition strengthens distributed lethality by providing commanders with a deep-strike option extending beyond traditional artillery and tactical aviation ranges. It's nearly 650-kilometer (350 nautical mile) reach under controlled conditions, which places critical infrastructure at risk from outside heavily defended airspace. At the same time, autonomous navigation and inertial backup systems mitigate the impact of electronic warfare interference.

Strategically, the integration of the SpektreWorks-built FLM 136 into Epic Fury illustrates a broader evolution in U.S. strike doctrine. Rather than relying exclusively on high-end aircraft and expensive cruise missiles, the Pentagon is increasingly incorporating scalable, domestically manufactured loitering munitions capable of imposing persistent pressure over time. By combining six-hour endurance, a modular payload capacity of 18 kilograms (40 lb), autonomous flight capability, and extended operational reach of approximately 650 kilometers (350 nautical miles), LUCAS represents a structurally different approach to deep precision strike.

As Epic Fury continues, the battlefield performance of the FLM 136 LUCAS will serve as a key indicator of how effectively long-range loitering munitions can complement traditional airpower in high-intensity state-on-state conflict. Its deployment from both land-based launchers and naval platforms such as USS Santa Barbara demonstrates the system’s adaptability across domains, reinforcing its role in shaping the future architecture of U.S. distributed strike operations.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Germany Integrates ENFORCER Anti-Tank Missile on GEREON UGV ground robot for Robotic Anti-Armor Strike
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ARX Robotics and MBDA Deutschland have mounted the ENFORCER precision-guided missile onto the GEREON unmanned ground vehicle, unveiling the four-launcher configuration at Enforce TAC 2026. The integration signals growing momentum behind distributed, robotic anti-armor systems designed to reduce infantry exposure while extending precision strike reach at the tactical edge.

ARX Robotics and MBDA Deutschland have integrated the ENFORCER precision-guided missile onto the GEREON unmanned ground vehicle and publicly presented the new configuration at Enforce TAC 2026. The demonstrator featured a GEREON UGV equipped with four ready-to-fire ENFORCER launchers, creating a remotely operated, mobile strike platform capable of engaging armored vehicles and fortified positions. ENFORCER, a lightweight precision missile designed for dismounted forces, offers fire-and-forget capability and day or night targeting through electro-optical guidance. By pairing the missile with an unmanned ground system, the companies aim to push precision firepower forward without exposing infantry to direct enemy contact, aligning with broader European and NATO efforts to expand robotic combat support at the tactical edge.
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GEREON RCS unmanned ground vehicle equipped with four MBDA ENFORCER precision-guided missile launchers displayed at Enforce TAC 2026, highlighting Germany’s push toward modular robotic strike capabilities. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The pairing combines MBDA’s lightweight fire-and-forget missile system with ARX Robotics’ modular unmanned ground platform, effectively transforming the GEREON from a reconnaissance and logistics robot into a precision strike asset. This integration signals a broader shift in European land warfare concepts toward robotic lethality, where unmanned systems extend the reach of infantry units while reducing vulnerability to enemy fire, drones, and ambushes.

The ENFORCER missile, developed by MBDA Deutschland, is a short-range precision-guided effector designed for dismounted operations. With a range of approximately 2 km and an electro-optical/infrared seeker, the missile provides fire-and-forget capability against light armored vehicles, fortified positions, and high-value point targets. Its compact design allows a complete round to weigh roughly 7 kg, enabling carriage by individual soldiers or integration onto lightweight platforms such as the GEREON. The system uses a soft-launch mechanism, reducing backblast and enabling safe deployment from confined or urban environments.

Mounted on the GEREON, four ENFORCER launchers significantly enhance the platform’s combat persistence. Instead of a single infantry operator carrying limited ammunition, a remotely controlled vehicle can maneuver forward under cover, designate targets, and engage multiple threats in rapid succession. The robotic carrier can operate in high-risk zones such as contested urban corridors, wooded terrain, or forward defensive positions, where exposure to anti-tank guided missiles, loitering munitions, and small arms fire presents severe risks to dismounted troops.

The GEREON RCS is ARX Robotics’ medium-sized, battlefield-proven, autonomous, and modular unmanned ground system designed to operate across reconnaissance, logistics, and combat roles. It supports both manual and autonomous modes of operation, allowing commanders to switch between direct teleoperation and pre-programmed or semi-autonomous mission profiles depending on tactical requirements. The vehicle can be controlled at ranges of up to 4 km, providing standoff capability while maintaining real-time responsiveness in dynamic engagements.

Equipped with integrated thermal night vision cameras, the platform is optimized for day and night operations, enhancing target acquisition and situational awareness in low-visibility or contested environments. The GEREON reaches a maximum speed of 15 km/h and offers an operational range of up to 40 km. With a charging time of approximately 2.5 hours and an operating endurance of up to 72 hours, depending on mission configuration, the system is designed for sustained forward deployment. Its payload capacity of up to 500 kg enables the integration of heavy mission modules, including missile launchers, sensor masts, electronic warfare kits, or resupply cargo. The vehicle’s compatibility with the ARX Modular System architecture ensures rapid reconfiguration for different operational roles without structural modification.

Operationally, the ENFORCER-armed GEREON aligns with NATO’s growing emphasis on distributed operations and manned-unmanned teaming. Infantry platoons equipped with robotic strike elements can conduct forward screening, ambush operations, and defensive blocking actions with reduced personnel exposure. In defensive scenarios, a GEREON equipped with ENFORCER missiles could serve as a concealed overwatch asset, positioned in defilade and remotely activated to engage advancing armor or fortified positions. In offensive urban combat, the system enables precise engagement of strongpoints before troops enter high-threat structures.

The integration also reflects a broader European industrial trend to accelerate battlefield robotics and modular missile applications in response to lessons from Ukraine and other recent conflicts. The widespread use of drones and loitering munitions has underscored the importance of dispersal, mobility, and rapid precision strike capability. Ground robots armed with precision missiles offer a complementary capability to aerial drones by maintaining a persistent ground presence, carrying heavier payloads, and operating in GPS-denied or electronically contested environments.

From an industrial and strategic standpoint, the ARX-MBDA collaboration positions both companies within a competitive European market focused on autonomous and semi-autonomous land combat solutions. Germany’s modernization trajectory under its expanded defense budget framework has placed renewed emphasis on force protection, digitization, and lethality enhancements for mechanized and infantry formations. Integrating domestically developed precision munitions onto robotic platforms supports sovereign capability objectives while potentially opening export pathways among NATO and partner nations seeking scalable unmanned combat systems.

While the Enforce TAC 2026 presentation demonstrated a technology integration rather than a confirmed procurement program, the concept underscores a tangible evolution in how short-range precision missiles may be deployed. Instead of being carried solely by soldiers, lightweight effectors like ENFORCER can now serve as modular strike packages on unmanned carriers, enabling distributed lethality across smaller tactical units.

The next phase will likely focus on operational testing, command-and-control integration within digitized battlefield networks, and survivability assessment in contested electromagnetic environments. If successfully matured, the GEREON-ENFORCER pairing could serve as a template for future European robotic combat systems, reinforcing a doctrinal shift toward unmanned precision engagement at the platoon and company levels.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Germany Reveals Ziesel Unmanned Anti-Tank Vehicle Equipped with Spike LR2 Missiles
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German Company Diehl Defence has introduced a compact unmanned ground vehicle based on the tracked Ziesel platform, armed with Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles and designed for forward infantry deployment. The system offers European and NATO forces a quiet, precision anti-armor capability that reduces soldier exposure while expanding battlefield reach in complex terrain.

German defense firm Diehl Defence has unveiled a compact unmanned ground combat vehicle integrating the lightweight tracked Ziesel UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle) with a two-round Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile launcher, presenting at Enforce Tac 2026 in Germany. Electrically powered for low acoustic and thermal signatures, the robotic vehicle is designed to move with dismounted infantry through urban streets, forests, and rugged terrain, delivering precision anti-armor fire while keeping operators under cover.
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German Company Diehl Defence Ziesel's unmanned ground vehicle, armed with a twin Spike LR2 anti-tank missile launcher, was displayed at Enforce Tac 2026, showcasing a compact robotic solution for infantry anti-armor operations. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The Spike LR2 anti-tank missile, with a range of up to 5.5 km depending on the launch profile and featuring fire-and-forget and fire-and-observe modes, gives small units a stand-off strike capability previously limited to larger vehicles. By pairing mobility, remote operation, and a proven missile system, Diehl positions the platform as a force multiplier for modern ground combat operations.

The concept integrates the Mattro-built Ziesel platform into a dedicated anti-tank configuration, transforming what was originally designed as a logistics and support carrier into a lethal remote weapon system. Diehl Defence’s integration of the Israeli-developed Spike LR2 missile positions the vehicle as a high-value ambush and defensive asset tailored for urban, forested, and restrictive environments where traditional armored vehicles struggle to maneuver. The choice of the LR2 variant reflects a deliberate focus on extended engagement range, enhanced penetration performance, and improved digital connectivity compared to earlier Spike generations.

Technically, the Ziesel platform measures approximately 1.6 meters in length and 1.3 meters in width, with a base weight of 380 kilograms. Despite its compact size, it can support a payload exceeding 500 kilograms, enabling it to carry a stabilized launcher module, electro-optical targeting systems, and associated command-and-control equipment. Powered by interchangeable 11 kWh lithium-ion battery packs, the vehicle operates entirely electrically, eliminating engine heat signatures and acoustic noise typically associated with internal combustion systems. This configuration enables a top speed of up to 20 km per hour while preserving a low observable profile during reconnaissance or ambush positioning.

The integration of the Spike LR2 significantly elevates the platform’s lethality. The Spike LR2 is the latest evolution of the long-range member of the Spike missile family, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and produced in Europe through partnerships that include Diehl Defence. It is a fifth-generation electro-optically guided anti-tank missile designed for engaging armored vehicles, fortified positions, and high-value targets. In its ground-launched configuration, the missile offers a maximum range of 5.5 km while maintaining compatibility with existing Spike LR launch units via digital upgrades.

The missile uses a dual-mode seeker combining uncooled infrared imaging and a high-resolution day camera, enabling true fire-and-forget capability and fire-observe-update functionality via a fiber-optic data link. This allows the operator to adjust the aimpoint after launch, switch targets mid-flight, or abort the mission if necessary. The Spike LR2 incorporates an improved tandem high-explosive anti-tank warhead capable of defeating modern main battle tank armor protected by explosive reactive armor and advanced composite protection systems. In addition to its primary anti-armor role, the missile can be fitted with a multi-purpose warhead optimized for use against bunkers, urban structures, and light armored vehicles, expanding mission flexibility for infantry units.

When mounted on an unmanned platform, the missile’s full capability can be used without risking exposure of infantry during launch or post-launch tracking. The remote operator can remain under cover while the UGV positions itself forward, designates targets through its onboard electro-optical suite, and conducts engagements from concealed firing points. This configuration enhances survivability for both personnel and the launch system, particularly in environments saturated with counter-sniper, artillery, or drone surveillance threats.

Operationally, the system is tailored for distributed infantry formations operating in contested environments. Its small footprint enables it to accompany troops through dense wooded terrain, narrow urban streets, and restrictive mountain passes where heavier vehicles cannot deploy. The electric propulsion system reduces acoustic and thermal detection risk, improving survivability in counter-reconnaissance scenarios. In defensive operations, multiple units could be prepositioned along likely armored avenues of approach, creating concealed anti-armor kill zones that are controlled remotely from protected positions.

From a doctrinal perspective, this development reflects a broader shift toward robotic combat support systems within NATO forces. Lightweight uncrewed ground vehicles are increasingly viewed as force multipliers that enhance lethality while preserving the workforce. For light infantry, airborne units, and special operations forces lacking organic armored firepower, a robotic missile carrier offers a cost-effective way to counter mechanized threats without deploying heavy anti-tank vehicles.

Industrial implications are equally significant. By combining a commercially developed electric UGV platform with a proven European-produced missile system, Diehl Defence demonstrates a modular approach to ground robotics that could reduce development timelines and procurement costs. The system’s relatively low weight also suggests compatibility with rotary-wing transport, enabling rapid air deployment in expeditionary operations. This could prove attractive for rapid reaction forces seeking scalable anti-armor capability without expanding armored fleet footprints.

Strategically, the emergence of silent robotic anti-tank platforms aligns with lessons drawn from modern conflicts where dispersed units equipped with precision-guided munitions have successfully neutralized armored formations. The integration of advanced missiles onto unmanned carriers reduces casualty risk while complicating the adversary's targeting cycle. For peer adversaries relying on armored maneuver doctrine, such systems introduce new uncertainties in reconnaissance and counter-mobility planning.

Looking ahead, the effectiveness of this platform will depend on its sensor suite integration, secure communications architecture, and resistance to electronic warfare interference. Future iterations could incorporate autonomous navigation, cooperative swarm tactics, and integration into broader battlefield management systems. If adopted at scale, compact missile-armed UGVs like the Diehl configuration may represent an evolutionary step in infantry anti-armor doctrine, shifting the balance between mobility, survivability, and lethality in favor of smaller, networked ground units.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Northrop Grumman Proposes Cannon-Based Air Defense System for U.S. Army Drone Threat
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U.S. Company Northrop Grumman has proposed a Cannon-Based Air Defense system designed to provide the U.S. Army with scalable terminal protection against mass drone and subsonic cruise missile attacks. The concept centers on guided medium-caliber ammunition tied into layered sensors and battle management networks, aiming to lower interception costs while sustaining short-range air defense capacity.

U.S. Company Northrop Grumman is advancing the Cannon-Based Air Defense (CBAD) concept as a scalable solution to counter the growing threat of drone swarms and low-flying cruise missiles targeting U.S. Army formations. The system integrates guided medium-caliber cannon ammunition with layered radar and electro-optical sensors, all linked through battle management command and control networks to enable coordinated terminal defense. By relying on precision-guided projectiles rather than high-cost interceptors, CBAD is intended to deliver sustained short-range air defense against large-volume, low-cost aerial raids. The proposal reflects Army concerns that current missile-based defenses may be financially and logistically strained in high-intensity conflicts.
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Northrop Grumman’s Cannon-Based Air Defense concept integrates medium-caliber automatic cannons with guided ammunition, advanced sensors, and battle management systems to provide scalable terminal defense against drone swarms and subsonic cruise missiles. (Picture source: Northrop Grumann)

The CBAD (Cannon-Based Air Defense) is structured not as a standalone gun, but as an integrated defensive architecture combining battle-proven automatic cannons, advanced ammunition, surveillance radars, electro-optical trackers, and networked battle management systems. It is designed to augment existing U.S. Army air defense layers, reinforcing the terminal engagement zone that protects air bases, logistics hubs, maneuver brigades, and critical infrastructure once outer missile defenses are saturated or bypassed.

The enabling technology is guided ammunition. Unlike conventional programmable airburst rounds that rely on timed detonation, guided cannon projectiles are designed to execute in-flight trajectory corrections toward aerial targets. Fired in small salvos, these munitions increase effective engagement range and improve the probability of kill against maneuvering unmanned aircraft systems and low-flying cruise missiles. The concept transforms the cannon from a purely ballistic area weapon into a maneuver-capable short-range interceptor.

While Northrop Grumman has not publicly released full performance data for CBAD, the concept leverages medium-caliber cannons such as the Bushmaster family. In U.S. Army service, the XM813 30 mm Bushmaster chain gun mounted on Stryker M-SHORAD vehicles has a cyclic rate of fire of approximately 200 rounds per minute, with effective air defense engagement ranges typically cited around 2 to 3 km, depending on ammunition type. Larger 35 mm systems, widely used in European air defense, can extend effective range beyond 4 km and deliver higher fragment mass per round.

For comparison, Germany’s Rheinmetall Skynex air defense system is among the most mature modern cannon-based air defense architectures currently in service. Skynex uses the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 in 35 mm caliber with a rate of fire of up to 1,000 rounds per minute. Its Advanced Hit Efficiency And Destruction (AHEAD) ammunition releases a cloud of pre-formed tungsten sub-projectiles in front of the target, increasing lethality against drones and rockets. The effective engagement range for the 35 mm system is typically around 4 kilometers against aerial threats. Skynex integrates X-TAR3D search radars, tracking sensors, and a modular command-and-control system that coordinates multiple gun units within a networked defense grid.

The key distinction between CBAD and Skynex lies in ammunition philosophy. Skynex relies on programmable airburst munitions that create dense fragmentation patterns along a predicted intercept point. CBAD, by contrast, emphasizes guided ammunition capable of multiple in-flight maneuvers, effectively narrowing the gap between traditional cannon rounds and missile interceptors. If fully matured, guided cannon rounds could extend engagement envelopes and improve the single-shot probability of kill beyond what programmable airburst alone can achieve.

From the Army Recognition defense analysts’ perspective, CBAD’s primary advantage for the U.S. Army would be economic sustainability and scalability. Missile-based short-range interceptors such as Stinger have engagement ranges of roughly 4 to 8 kilometers, but at significantly higher unit cost. In saturation scenarios involving dozens or hundreds of low-cost drones, missile inventories can be rapidly depleted. Cannon systems, particularly those with high onboard ammunition capacity, offer greater magazine depth and lower cost per engagement, preserving missile stocks for higher-tier threats.

In terms of rate of fire, the 30 mm XM813’s approximate 200 rounds per minute provides controlled engagement suitable for integration on maneuver platforms such as Stryker. By contrast, the 35 mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun’s 1,000 rounds per minute enables dense projectile clouds for base defense scenarios. CBAD’s scalability across calibers suggests it could be adapted to both maneuver and fixed-site defense roles, depending on platform selection.

Operationally, both CBAD and Skynex address the same strategic reality: adversaries are expanding the quantity, variety, and expendability of aerial weapons. Future conflicts are expected to involve significantly larger raid sizes targeting air bases and critical infrastructure. Traditional long-range interceptor missiles remain indispensable for high-performance aircraft and advanced missile threats, but they are not optimized for economically defeating mass-produced drones.

CBAD’s integration with battle management command and control systems aligns with the U.S. Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense architecture, enabling sensor-to-shooter connectivity across layered defenses. Skynex similarly operates within a modular networked structure, demonstrating that modern cannon-based systems are no longer standalone guns but digitally integrated defensive nodes.

Strategically, the comparison highlights diverging but complementary approaches. European systems such as Skynex emphasize highly optimized programmable airburst lethality at known ranges, already fielded and combat-proven in counter-drone roles. Northrop Grumman’s CBAD concept advances toward maneuverable guided ammunition that could increase flexibility, extend effective engagement zones, and enhance resilience against agile threats.

For the U.S. Army, the relevance of CBAD lies in restoring credible, scalable terminal defense while addressing the cost-exchange imbalance exposed by drone saturation warfare. Whether adopted formally under that designation or integrated into future short-range air defense modernization efforts, guided cannon-based systems represent a structural evolution in how ground forces defend against mass air threats in high-intensity conflict environments.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
FN 303 less lethal launcher by FN Herstal features safety oriented design for law enforcement use
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Army Recognition’s expert analysis examines the FN 303, developed by the Belgian Company FN Herstal, as a purpose-engineered less-lethal engagement system designed for controlled threat management at distance. The platform highlights how predictable energy transfer and accuracy can reduce injury risk while giving security forces more graduated response options.

According to Army Recognition’s expert assessment, the FN 303, developed by the Belgian Company FN Herstal, plays a distinct role in modern law enforcement and security operations, positioned not as a conventional weapon but as a dedicated force-management platform. Developed to address unarmed or low-level threats at controlled distances, the system prioritizes predictable performance, regulated kinetic energy, and precision engagement as foundational safety elements, aligning with evolving use-of-force doctrines adopted by police and security agencies worldwide.
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The FN SMART PROTECTOR® 303T integrates regulated pneumatic propulsion with real-time head detection technology to reduce injury risk during less lethal engagements. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Less lethal solutions are defined by their engineering objectives rather than by intent alone. They are designed to deliver sufficient kinetic effect to temporarily incapacitate or deter aggressive behavior while minimizing the probability of irreversible trauma. This is achieved through strict control of projectile mass, velocity, stabilization, and engagement distance. The underlying principle is to provide an intermediate response option when verbal commands or physical restraint are ineffective, yet where lethal firearms would be disproportionate.

The FN 303 is a less-lethal solution developed around this philosophy since its inception and has accumulated more than two decades of operational use worldwide. Army Recognition analysts note that the system relies on compressed-air propulsion rather than combustion. This pneumatic architecture allows precise regulation of muzzle velocity and eliminates pressure spikes and thermal variability, resulting in highly consistent ballistic performance. Consistency is a critical safety parameter, as unpredictable energy delivery is a primary contributor to unintended injury.

The FN 303 fires proprietary .68 caliber projectiles specifically engineered for controlled impact. These projectiles feature a lightweight body combined with rear stabilization fins that maintain a nose-forward orientation throughout flight. Fin stabilization prevents tumbling and ensures that impact energy is distributed predictably across the target surface. Unlike legacy rubber ball systems, which can behave erratically in flight, the FN 303 projectile design emphasizes repeatability and controlled force application.

Accuracy is central to the FN 303 safety concept. The launcher incorporates a barrel optimized for fin-stabilized ammunition, enabling precise shot placement at distances that provide operators with critical standoff. From a technical standpoint, precision directly contributes to injury reduction by limiting the likelihood of unintended strikes and enabling engagement of approved target zones. In a less lethal system design, accuracy is therefore a safety feature rather than a purely tactical advantage.

From a physics perspective, Army Recognition experts stress that all impact-based less lethal systems operate within unavoidable biomechanical limits. A projectile capable of producing a stopping effect at range inherently carries the potential to cause serious injury if deployed outside defined parameters. At very short distances, reduced time for energy dissipation increases the risk of blunt trauma, regardless of projectile composition. For this reason, minimum engagement distances and prohibited target zones are integral to the safe use of any modern less lethal platform. They are dictated by energy transfer mechanics rather than policy.

Building on extensive operational feedback and safety analysis, FN Herstal introduced the FN SMART PROTECTOR® 303T as an evolution of the FN 303 concept with a focus on actively reducing injury risk. While retaining the proven shoulder-fired FN 303 Tactical architecture and pneumatic propulsion system, the 303T integrates an image processing camera capable of detecting human heads in real time. This technology directly addresses one of the most critical risk factors associated with less-lethal engagements: unintentional impacts on vulnerable anatomical areas under stress.

The FN SMART PROTECTOR® 303T represents a shift from passive safety, based solely on training and procedures, to active safety embedded in the system itself. By identifying high-risk target zones before a shot is released, the platform is designed to drastically reduce the likelihood of accidental head impacts that could result in severe or irreversible injuries. From an engineering standpoint, this integration of digital assistance reflects a new generation of less lethal design focused on compensating for human limitations in chaotic environments.

In addition to real-time risk mitigation, the integrated camera system supports after-action analysis and advanced marksmanship training. Engagement data can be reviewed to reinforce correct use, improve operator proficiency, and strengthen accountability. This dual role enhances both immediate safety and long-term operational discipline, aligning the system with evolving expectations for responsible force management.

Army Recognition’s analysis concludes that the FN 303 and FN SMART PROTECTOR® 303T illustrate the maturity of modern less lethal technology as a specialized engineering field. Through regulated pneumatic propulsion, fin-stabilized projectiles, accuracy-driven design, and real-time digital safety mechanisms, FN Herstal has developed a solution that actively reduces injury risk rather than merely statistically reducing it. Evaluated on technical merit alone, the FN SMART PROTECTOR® 303T sets a new benchmark in safety-oriented less lethal engagement systems, demonstrating how engineering innovation can meaningfully improve outcomes in complex operational scenarios.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
France and Belgium Study 105mm Gun Variant of French Jaguar 6x6 Combat Vehicle
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France and Belgium are examining a joint program to develop a light armored combat vehicle armed with a 105mm gun, derived from the French Jaguar 6x6 platform. If pursued, the project could deepen the bilateral CaMo partnership and provide both armies with a higher-caliber direct fire option that enhances mobility, operational flexibility, and interoperability.

France and Belgium are exploring the possibility of jointly developing a new light armored combat vehicle equipped with a 105mm gun, according to a January 14, 2026, report by the French economic newspaper Les Echos. Jean-Luc Maurange, CEO of Belgian defense company John Cockerill, said discussions are underway at both industrial and governmental levels to study a heavier-armed variant based on the Jaguar 6x6 reconnaissance and combat vehicle already operated by the two countries under the CaMo framework.
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The French EBRC Jaguar 6x6 armored reconnaissance vehicle, armed with a 40mm CTA cannon and MMP missiles, forms the backbone of France and Belgium’s CaMo partnership. A potential 105mm-armed variant is now under consideration to boost direct fire capability. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Jean-Luc Maurange, CEO of Belgian defense company John Cockerill, who recently returned to helm John Cockerill following its acquisition of French military vehicle manufacturer ARQUUS, described the project as an “evolutionary step” in European land capability. The envisioned vehicle would retain Jaguar’s mobility, integrated sensors, and battlefield networking capabilities, but replace the current 40mm CTA cannon mounted on the French Jaguar wheeled combat vehicle with a more potent 105mm direct-fire weapon. “It is a way to offer heavier fire support while preserving strategic mobility,” he told Les Echos, suggesting the concept addresses operational demands seen in recent conflicts, where light armored units have encountered more resilient targets in urban and semi-conventional theaters.

John Cockerill Defense, the Belgian firm’s armored systems division, already includes a mature 105mm turret system in its product portfolio. Known as the COCKERILL® 3105, this turret is designed to deliver high-pressure, direct-fire on mobile, air-transportable platforms. It features a fully digital fire control system, hunter-killer capability, day/night thermal optics, and the ability to fire NATO-standard 105mm kinetic and multi-purpose ammunition. Weighing under 3.5 tons and engineered for integration on wheeled and tracked platforms from 18 to 25 tons, the turret was specifically conceived to bridge the gap between reconnaissance vehicles and heavier direct-fire platforms.

The 3105 system can be operated by a two-man crew or remotely, offering flexibility and adaptability. Already integrated on various wheeled vehicles and in serial production, it is a strong candidate for a future Franco-Belgian 105mm Jaguar-based armored vehicle.

The initiative would represent a significant enhancement of the Franco-Belgian armored architecture. It has the potential to provide NATO forces with a flexible, expeditionary platform with sufficient firepower to confront medium-armored threats. Strategically, such a vehicle would complement the French Army’s upcoming VBAE (Véhicule Blindé d’Aide à l’Engagement) reconnaissance vehicle and could fill a niche between light cavalry and main battle tank formations, particularly in hybrid conflict zones or for rapid deployment forces.

This concept also reflects the trend in Europe toward indigenous solutions, enabling France and Belgium to reduce dependence on non-European platforms. Leveraging CaMo's shared industrial capacity, training, and logistics can accelerate timelines, reduce costs, and ensure sustained operational readiness.

Maurange’s remarks indicate growing political and military interest, though the idea is still developing. If formalized, the project could become a flagship NATO co-development, yielding strategic and industrial benefits. In the next few months, initial feasibility studies and consultations are planned between the French DGA and the Belgian Ministry of Defence.

For John Cockerill, the potential program would deepen its role in European armored vehicle development and consolidate its unique position between the French and Belgian defense industries. The acquisition of ARQUUS provides near-complete vertical integration, from vehicle chassis to advanced weapon stations.

The base wheeled armored vehicle at the center of this proposed evolution is the EBRC Jaguar, a next-generation 6x6 armored reconnaissance and combat vehicle jointly developed by Nexter, ARQUUS, and Thales for the French Army under the Scorpion program. Designed to replace legacy AMX-10RC and ERC-90 wheeled armored vehicles, the Jaguar features a fully digital architecture, high mobility, and advanced protection systems.

Its current armament configuration includes a 40mm CTA (Cased Telescoped Ammunition) cannon developed by CTA International. This weapon can fire advanced airburst munitions. The vehicle also integrates two ready-to-launch MBDA MMP (Missile Moyenne Portée) anti-tank missiles and a 7.62mm remote-controlled coaxial machine gun. The system includes a panoramic optronic sight, battlefield networking tools, and cutting-edge vetronics, enabling seamless command-and-control integration across joint units.

Belgium became the first export customer for the Jaguar through the landmark CaMo program, signing a €1.6 billion agreement with France in 2018. Under the terms of this strategic cooperation, Belgium will acquire 60 Jaguar EBRC vehicles along with 382 Griffon VBMR armored personnel carriers, ensuring full operational and doctrinal interoperability with French ground forces. Deliveries of the Belgian Jaguars began in 2025 and are scheduled to be completed by 2030.

When fielded, the Jaguar will give Belgium a modern combat and reconnaissance vehicle. A 105mm variant would increase mission flexibility and meet rising demand for mobile firepower.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Ukrainian Special Forces Reveal Shotgun Tactics Against Aerial Drones Relevant to U.S. and NATO
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Ukraine’s 3rd Special Operations Forces Regiment has unveiled new counter-drone training methods designed to defeat Russian FPV kamikaze drones on the battlefield. The tactics, refined under real combat conditions, offer practical lessons for U.S. and NATO forces facing drone-heavy conflicts.

Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SOF) are adapting rapidly to one of the most persistent threats on today’s battlefield, the widespread use of Russian first-person-view kamikaze drones. The 3rd Regiment of the Ukrainian SOF recently disclosed details of newly developed counter-drone training tactics that rely on shotguns and close-range engagement techniques, according to material released by Ukrainian military sources. The methods were tested and refined during frontline operations, where FPV (First Person View) drones have been increasingly used to target troops in trenches, tree lines, and defensive positions.
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Ukrainian Special Forces from the 3rd Regiment of UASOF conduct live-fire training with 12-gauge shotguns to intercept hostile FPV drones during close-range counter-UAS drills near the front line. (Picture source: 3rd Regiment of UASOF)

At a classified training ground in eastern Ukraine, soldiers from this elite regiment are undergoing intensive drills to neutralize incoming FPV (First Person View) drones using 12-gauge shotguns, both pump-action and semi-automatic. This approach, far from being improvised, is the result of structured training cycles, real-world combat feedback, and rapidly evolving doctrine that is now being exported to other Ukrainian brigades.

Rather than relying solely on jamming systems or missile-based air defense - which are often unavailable or economically impractical in the field - the 3rd Regiment is focusing on perfecting close-range kinetic interception of drones. The logic is simple: if an FPV drone can be detected in time, a well-placed shotgun blast can disable or destroy it before it hits its target. But the key to this defense is not the weapon alone - it is the training.

Troops are drilled in shooting at drone analogues flying at varying speeds and angles, from head-on to flanking trajectories. Realistic scenarios involve dummy drones equipped with visual cues such as flashing lights or smoke, while instructors simulate battlefield conditions with noise and distraction. The exercises also cover ambidextrous firing positions, rapid target reacquisition, and firing from cover, mimicking trenches and urban rubble where soldiers would realistically encounter drone threats.

Crucially, situational awareness training plays a central role. Drones often appear with little warning, guided manually by operators hiding kilometers away. Ukrainian forces are learning to identify low-altitude flight corridors, recognize the sound signatures of FPV engines, and coordinate with spotters to trigger a fast response. In many frontline zones, electronic warfare support is either unavailable or degraded, making manual countermeasures the last and only line of defense.

This shotgun-centric approach to drone defense has gained traction among global arms manufacturers, who are now racing to field infantry-level solutions against the rising threat of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). At Milipol 2025, FN Herstal presented a tactical version of the Winchester SX4 semi-automatic shotgun, adapted for military and security forces. Chambered in 12-gauge and capable of firing both 2¾" and 3" magnum shells, the SX4 Tactical features a gas-operated semi-automatic action, allowing for rapid follow-up shots - critical when engaging fast-moving FPV drones. Its lightweight design, approximately 3.2 kg depending on configuration, and compatibility with red-dot optics through integrated Picatinny rails make it particularly effective for close-range aerial interdiction. While FN Herstal has not publicly confirmed specialized anti-drone ammunition, the shotgun’s high cycling rate and modularity are already positioning it as a practical asset for units operating in drone-contested zones.

Elsewhere, other firearm manufacturers are expanding similar capabilities. Beretta Defense Technologies is reportedly developing enhanced 12-gauge ammunition with optimized spread patterns and fragmentation effects tailored for drone defense. In Turkey, companies such as Hatsan have begun marketing tactical shotgun variants featuring reinforced polymer stocks, recoil control systems, and improved sighting options specifically for counter-UAS roles in close quarters and open terrain. Germany’s Rheinmetall has gone a step further, integrating shotgun modules into mobile counter-drone stations mounted on tactical vehicles, combining sensor fusion and kinetic intercept capabilities for convoy and base defense.

In the United States, the M1014 Joint Service Combat Shotgun has been evaluated for counter-drone use by the U.S. Marine Corps and other services. Trials have included the use of heavier shot loads, such as tungsten or steel pellets, to increase aerial lethality. Paired with red-dot optics and audio-visual detection cues, these shotguns have been tested in urban, jungle, and mountainous scenarios - conditions where larger air defense systems are impractical or unavailable.

Operational data from multiple forces suggest that shotguns can deliver high drone kill probabilities in that short-range envelope, particularly against plastic-bodied quadcopters vulnerable to fragmentation. A single well-aimed blast can damage a rotor, shatter a camera, or sever control circuits, causing the drone to crash. Buckshot rounds, in particular, offer the ideal balance of spread and stopping power for drones traveling at oblique angles or moving erratically.

Several NATO and allied armed forces have begun integrating similar tactics into their training regimes. The U.S. Marine Corps has explored using the M1014 Joint Service Combat Shotgun for short-range drone defense, while Israel’s Defense Forces have tested tactical shotguns during urban counter-UAS exercises. In Australia, drone-stopping drills using off-the-shelf pump-action shotguns have been conducted during infantry training cycles, particularly in jungle and built-up environments where radar and jammers have limited reach.

European manufacturers are also responding. Italy’s Beretta Defense Technologies has developed 12-gauge cartridges with enhanced aerial fragmentation payloads, and Rheinmetall in Germany has proposed integrating shotguns into vehicle-mounted drone defense modules for convoy protection. Turkish firms, including Hatsan, have marketed anti-drone shotgun kits complete with targeting optics and reinforced stocks for military buyers.

In Ukraine, the 3rd Regiment’s training has already been extended to National Guard units and regular infantry brigades, with instructors emphasizing that close-range drone defense must become a standard skill for every frontline soldier. The speed at which the battlefield is adapting to the FPV threat is forcing a complete rethink of conventional air defense hierarchies. Instead of centralized systems controlling drone defense, the fight is now moving to the tactical edge - down to the squad level.

While Ukraine continues to press Western partners for more advanced drone-jamming and missile-based systems, it is clear that the low-tech shotgun is carving out a vital niche. Cheap, available, and instantly deployable, a shotgun in trained hands can serve as a frontline firewall against drones that cost a fraction to build but can take out a vehicle, mortar team, or command post with devastating effect.

This shift toward decentralized, kinetic drone defense signals a broader transformation in how modern militaries will prepare for warfare over the next decade. As unmanned threats proliferate, from swarming quadcopters to autonomous loitering munitions, the global race is not only to build smarter drones, but to find faster ways to shoot them down.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
U.S. Army Enhances M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 Tank Firepower with PERCH Switchblade Loitering Munitions
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The U.S. Army has successfully tested the PERCH loitering munition system integrated onto M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 main battle tanks, according to industry and U.S. Army sources. The effort signals a shift toward providing armored crews with organic, beyond-line-of-sight reconnaissance and precision-strike capabilities without relying on external drone units.

In a milestone for armored warfare modernization, the U.S. Army has successfully demonstrated the Precision Effects & Reconnaissance, Canister-Housed (PERCH) system mounted on the M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 Main Battle Tank. Developed by General Dynamics Land Systems in partnership with AeroVironment, the system allows tank crews to launch Switchblade loitering munitions directly from the vehicle, extending surveillance and strike reach well beyond visual range while remaining under armor. Army officials have emphasized that PERCH is still in the evaluation phase and has not yet been fielded to operational units.
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PERCH launcher module mounted on the side of a U.S. Army M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tank, enabling deployment of Switchblade loitering munitions for beyond-line-of-sight reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

PERCH equips the Abrams with two categories of tactical loitering munitions: the Switchblade 300 Block 20 and the Switchblade 600. Housed in modular canisters that bolt onto the exterior of the vehicle using existing mounting points, the system avoids any permanent modifications to the tank’s hull and operates natively through the onboard battle management systems. The result is a tightly integrated drone strike capability that requires no external command-and-control architecture and can be operated directly by the tank crew under armor.

For non-specialist readers, the significance of this upgrade hinges on the concept of "Beyond Line of Sight" (BLOS) capability. Traditionally, tanks are limited to engaging targets they can physically see through their optics or sensors, meaning if an obstacle, such as terrain, buildings, or foliage, blocks the view, the tank cannot detect or engage the enemy. BLOS systems, such as loitering munitions, overcome this limitation by enabling reconnaissance and precision strikes over hills, behind buildings, or across complex urban terrain. With loitering drones launched from the tank itself and controlled in real time, crews can now locate, observe, and neutralize enemy forces without ever exposing the tank to return fire.

In combat applications, the Switchblade 300 Block 20 introduces a highly responsive reconnaissance and engagement tool tailored for infantry targets, light vehicles, and anti-tank teams operating from concealed positions. With over 20 minutes of flight endurance, steep terminal attack angles, and user-selectable points of detonation, it excels in hunting down threats that are otherwise shielded from the Abrams’ main gun. The 300 can be used, for example, to eliminate an enemy ATGM team operating from a rooftop or trench line before they even come into firing range. Its patented wave-off and recommit capability enables mid-flight targeting changes, ensuring that the munition strikes only when conditions are optimal.

The heavier Switchblade 600 expands these capabilities into the anti-armor and bunker-busting realm. With a 40-minute loiter time and a larger warhead specifically designed to defeat armored vehicles and fortified positions, it acts as both a reconnaissance drone and a precision long-range missile. In combat terms, this means that an Abrams platoon equipped with Switchblade 600s can shape the battlefield before direct contact, targeting enemy tanks, command posts, or logistics vehicles at extended distances, well beyond the reach of the 120mm smoothbore cannon. These strikes can be carried out without warning and without the need to call for artillery or air support, dramatically shortening the sensor-to-shooter timeline.

Loitering munitions also offer a fundamentally different mode of lethality compared to the tank’s standard armament. The Abrams’ 120mm gun is optimized for high-energy, direct-line engagements, firing high-explosive and armor-piercing rounds to destroy tanks, structures, or exposed infantry. But its effectiveness depends on visibility, line of fire, and proximity. Loitering munitions introduce a parallel strike capability: slower but precise, intelligent, and capable of hovering, observing, and selecting when and how to strike. They enable a tank not just to destroy what it sees, but to destroy what it senses, without risking the vehicle.

In high-threat environments such as urban combat zones or complex terrain with high ambush risk, PERCH fundamentally enhances crew survivability. Rather than advancing blindly into a choke point or relying on scouts, Abrams units can now launch a Switchblade to reconnoiter intersections, ridgelines, or suspected ambush sites. If hostile forces are detected, they can be eliminated before the tank ever moves. This added layer of decision-making space is critical in modern warfare, where first contact often determines survivability.

Operationally, the PERCH system is also a major force enabler. Because it uses common vehicle hardware and control interfaces, it can be deployed not only on Abrams tanks but also on Stryker platforms and potentially other combat vehicles. The modular design ensures it can be upgraded as drone technology evolves, whether with new munitions, AI-assisted targeting, or future swarming capabilities.

From a tactical standpoint, the pairing of the Abrams’ traditional firepower with the surgical precision of loitering munitions provides commanders with unmatched flexibility. During offensive operations, a formation can use Switchblades to disrupt enemy defensive positions, create deception through drone incursions, or isolate targets before committing tanks to close contact. In defensive missions, the drones offer persistent aerial overwatch and can rapidly neutralize infiltrating infantry or mobile ATGM teams before they can position for an ambush.

The PERCH system is not an experimental concept. It is a fieldable and combat-ready capability already aligned with the Army’s doctrine for multi-domain operations. It reflects a broader shift in armored warfare, where the tank is no longer just a kinetic platform but a multi-role command-and-strike hub within a larger digital battlefield. By integrating sensors, weapons, and decision-making into a single unit, the U.S. Army M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tank with PERCH is equipped not just for today’s battles but for tomorrow’s unpredictable and rapidly evolving combat environments.

As peer adversaries expand their anti-armor capabilities with drones, guided missiles, and electronic warfare, the U.S. Army’s approach is clear: match mass with precision, armor with agility, and direct fire with aerial lethality. PERCH delivers all three, and it positions the Abrams, once again, at the forefront of mechanized warfare innovation.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years of experience in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis of military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
U.S. Army AH-64E Apache attack helicopter demonstrates counter-drone capability in Kuwait
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U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopters participated in the Kuwaiti-led Sky Shield exercise at Udari Range Complex on Dec. 9, 2025, focusing on joint counter-drone operations. The event underscores how U.S. Army aviation is adapting to confront the rapid spread of small unmanned aerial systems on today’s battlefields.

U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopters trained alongside Kuwaiti and partner forces during Exercise Sky Shield at the Udari Range Complex in Kuwait on Dec. 9, 2025, according to information released by the U.S Department of War. The drill emphasized integrated air defense and counter-unmanned aerial system operations, reflecting growing concern across U.S. Central Command about the increasing use of small, low-cost drones in regional conflicts.
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A U.S. Army AH-64 Apache operates during a live-fire phase of Exercise Sky Shield at the Udari Range Complex in Kuwait on Dec. 9, 2025. The Kuwait-led exercise brought together forces from the United States, Bahrain, and the United Kingdom to strengthen combined air defense and operational interoperability. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

Traditionally, in the U.S. Army, the AH-64 Apache has been optimized as a heavy attack helicopter, designed to destroy armored vehicles, support ground forces, and conduct deep attack missions against high-value targets. Since its introduction during the Cold War, the Apache’s core missions have included close combat attack, armed reconnaissance, and the suppression of enemy armored formations using precision-guided munitions.

However, the character of warfare has shifted significantly over the past decade. Conflicts such as the war in Ukraine have demonstrated how unmanned aerial systems now dominate reconnaissance, targeting, and strike missions at every echelon. Small, inexpensive drones are used to spot artillery fire, attack armored vehicles, and threaten aircraft operating at low altitude, fundamentally altering the operating environment for helicopters.

These developments have forced the U.S. Army to reassess how attack helicopters like the AH-64 can survive and remain relevant in drone-saturated battlespaces. Rather than operating solely as offensive strike platforms, Apaches are increasingly viewed as multi-role assets that can contribute to sensing, command-and-control, and limited counter-drone functions within a layered air defense framework.

During Exercise Sky Shield, the AH-64 operated as part of an integrated air defense architecture, supporting detection, tracking, and response efforts against simulated aerial threats. Its inclusion demonstrated how attack helicopters can provide mobile coverage and rapid reaction capabilities, particularly in areas where fixed air defense systems may be constrained by terrain or coverage gaps.

Beyond this exercise, the U.S. Army has tested and evaluated the AH-64E Apache Guardian as a counter-UAS contributor during recent operational experiments. These assessments have focused on how the aircraft’s sensor suite, including electro-optical, infrared, and fire control radar systems, can detect and track small aerial targets and share that data with ground-based air defense units.

From a weapons perspective, several systems mounted on the AH-64E are being examined for their applicability against aerial drones, depending on threat type and engagement conditions. The 30mm M230 chain gun offers a relatively cost-effective option for engaging slow-moving or low-altitude drones within visual range, particularly when cued by onboard sensors. Its high rate of fire and flexible aiming system make it suitable for short-range aerial engagements.

The Apache’s guided rocket systems, including laser-guided 70mm rockets, are also being studied as potential counter-drone options against larger unmanned aircraft or clustered targets. While not specifically designed for air defense, guided rockets offer a balance between precision and cost compared to larger missiles.

In contrast, heavy precision weapons such as the AGM-114 Hellfire or AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) are generally considered less economical for small-drone engagements, but they remain relevant against larger, high-value unmanned platforms or when no other engagement options are available. Army planners are evaluating doctrine to determine when such weapons may be justified in counter-UAS scenarios.

Equally important is the Apache’s role as a networked sensor and command node. Through secure data links, the AH-64E can relay real-time tracking data to air defense batteries, command posts, and other aircraft, enabling faster, more coordinated responses to drone incursions. This networked approach mirrors lessons from Ukraine, where rapid sensor-to-shooter connectivity has proven decisive.

For Kuwaiti forces, Sky Shield provided valuable insight into how the U.S. Army aviation is adapting to these realities. The combined training strengthened interoperability and demonstrated how rotary-wing platforms can support national air defense and critical infrastructure protection in an era defined by unmanned threats.

Strategically, the Apache’s evolving role reflects a broader U.S. Army modernization effort driven by lessons learned from contemporary conflicts. By adapting proven platforms like the AH-64 to counter drone threats, the Army aims to build resilient, layered defenses capable of operating effectively in highly contested and technologically dense environments.

Exercises such as Kuwaiti-Led Sky Shield underscore that the AH-64 Apache is no longer viewed solely as an anti-armor platform. Instead, it is increasingly integrated into air defense and counter-UAS planning, ensuring it remains a relevant and adaptable asset on the modern battlefield.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Northrop Grumman AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR software update boosts radar range for U.S. Marines and Air Force
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Northrop Grumman has pushed a significant software upgrade to all fielded AN/TPS-80 GATOR radars used by the Marine Corps and the Air Force. The update strengthens detection range and threat clarity and improves joint network integration at a time when U.S. forces are facing faster and more complex aerial challenges.

Northrop Grumman confirmed that AN/TPS-80 GATOR (Ground/Air Task-Oriented Radar) has received a new software package that enables extended-range capabilities, allowing the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) and U.S. Air Force (USAF) to detect threats at greater distances and respond more swiftly. Program officials describe the upgrade as a step change in how the radar sorts and prioritizes modern air threats, noting that the revisions refine track stability, improve clutter rejection, and enable smoother data sharing across joint and allied command networks. The timing reflects a strategic push by the Pentagon to harden sensor architecture against a growing mix of cruise missiles, small unmanned aircraft, low-observable platforms, and emerging hypersonic systems.
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U.S. Marines from Marine Air Control Squadron 24, part of Marine Air Control Group 48, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, operate an AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR radar system during a training mission in Cold Bay, Alaska, as part of ARCTIC EDGE 2025. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

While Northrop Grumman has confirmed the introduction of a new extended-range mode, precise detection ranges remain classified. Official product specifications do not publicly define a fixed maximum range. However, the radar has consistently been described as a long-range system with four-dimensional tracking across azimuth, elevation, range, and time. The company has stated that the recent upgrade delivers improved tracking performance and an expanded surveillance envelope, enabling earlier threat detection and faster engagement timelines. These advancements are especially critical in expeditionary and forward-operating scenarios, where early warning and precise classification can mean the difference between neutralizing a threat and absorbing a strike.

G/ATOR is designed as a multi-mission, software-defined radar capable of replacing several legacy systems across the Marine Corps and Air Force inventory. With a single platform, operators can perform air surveillance, air defense fire control, counter-fire target acquisition, and air traffic control missions. Operating in the S-band frequency, the radar uses active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology to deliver high-resolution imagery and rapid beam agility, even under electronic warfare and jamming conditions.

One of G/ATOR’s key strengths lies in its expeditionary mobility. The system is configured for rapid deployment and can be easily transported by tactical trucks or C-130 aircraft. This design is well-suited to the Marine Corps’ distributed operations model and to Air Force missions requiring agile base defense or gap-filling radar coverage in denied environments. Once deployed, the radar’s open-architecture command-and-control interface enables real-time data sharing with other sensors and fire-control systems, positioning it as a critical node within the Department of Defense’s broader Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) framework.

The software upgrade also enhances the radar’s Identification, Friend or Foe (IFF) capability, providing operators with more reliable classification tools and reducing the risk of blue-on-blue engagements. This improvement, combined with its enhanced tracking algorithms, allows the system to better discriminate among a growing variety of airborne threats, particularly in cluttered or contested airspace where traditional radars struggle.

Though exact figures remain undisclosed, industry officials and service members have described the update as a substantial performance leap that enhances G/ATOR’s utility against low-altitude, low-observable, and high-speed targets. Northrop Grumman has emphasized that G/ATOR’s software-defined architecture enables continuous modernization, with future enhancements expected to include artificial intelligence-assisted threat detection and tighter integration with both kinetic and non-kinetic effectors.

To date, 39 G/ATOR systems have been delivered, with the 40th expected by the end of the year. All units incorporate U.S.-manufactured microelectronics, a deliberate choice to ensure supply chain security and compliance with the Pentagon’s push for defense industrial base resilience. As the U.S. military continues shifting toward adaptable, sensor-driven operations, G/ATOR remains a cornerstone system for integrated air and missile defense.

In its latest form, G/ATOR offers more than just incremental improvement. It reflects a broader transformation in how the U.S. services approach battlefield sensing: with agility, precision, and digital integration at the forefront. Whether protecting frontline Marines or extending surveillance coverage for Air Force airfields, the upgraded radar gives U.S. forces a decisive tool for dominating the air domain in today’s multi-threat environment.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
U.S. Marines Train with M1014 Shotgun as Counter-Drone Solution Against Small Aerial Threats
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U.S. Marines at Camp Pendleton used the M1014 shotgun in live counter-drone training during Exercise Steel Knight 25. The drills show how frontline units are adding practical, close-range tools to handle fast, low-flying aerial threats.

On December 2, 2025, during a training event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marines used the M1014 shotgun to engage small, low-flying drones as part of their regular Steel Knight 25 field regimen. Instructors described the work as hands-on, live-fire training that builds confidence and muscle memory for Marines who may face similar threats in dispersed or urban environments. The service is expanding these drills across multiple units as small drones become a routine presence in global conflicts.
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U.S. Marine Sgt. Emerick Wurstner fires an M1014 shotgun during a counter-small drone training range at Camp Pendleton during Exercise Steel Knight 25, Dec. 2, 2025. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

The U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton range puts U.S. Marines in realistic engagement scenarios, requiring them to detect targets visually, track them, and fire rapidly at drone-representative targets. These drills reinforced the shotgun’s role as a last-line defensive tool when drones approach too quickly or at altitudes too low for sensors or jammers to stop.

The M1014 (Benelli M4) is a 12-gauge semiautomatic shotgun with a gas-operated action for reliable cycling. Its 7+1 capacity, quick recoil recovery, and compatibility with various shells support close-range use. Specialized buckshot and frangible rounds spread to damage drone rotors, sensors, and lightweight frames.

U.S. Marines calculated leads, executed rapid shoulder transitions, and coordinated team firing—techniques essential for engaging drones that maneuver unpredictably. The training showed how the shotgun serves as an affordable, immediately available countermeasure that fills a critical gap in layered C-UAS (Counter Unmanned Aerial System) defense.

This approach is not unique to the United States. Several armies worldwide have begun using combat shotguns as counter-drone weapons due to their simplicity and low cost. Forces in the United Kingdom, Australia, Ukraine, and multiple NATO members have fielded 12-gauge platforms for short-range drone interception, often pairing them with handheld radars or visual spotters. In recent conflicts, shotgun fire has proven particularly effective at stopping small quadcopters during reconnaissance or explosive delivery missions.

By incorporating shotgun-based counter-drone engagements into Steel Knight 25, the Marine Corps aligns its training with global best practices. Many militaries view the shotgun as a practical defensive tool that can be carried at the squad level, requires minimal electronics, and offers immediate lethality against small UAS that bypass sophisticated air-defense networks.

Officials supporting the event highlighted that enemy drone use is expanding rapidly, as adversaries rely on inexpensive commercial and military-grade platforms for surveillance and precision attacks. Units that quickly destroy these systems at close range strengthen force protection for expeditionary forces and enhance survivability during distributed operations.

Deploying the M1014 in counter-drone roles signals an immediate shift in U.S. defense priorities. As small UAS threats accelerate in both capabilities and numbers, the Marine Corps must act now by integrating combat-proven tools to ensure readiness in every environment.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Germany’s Rheinmetall demonstrates amphibious Mission Master SP2 ground robot capabilities in NATO trials
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Rheinmetall’s Mission Master SP2 unmanned ground vehicle demonstrated its advanced amphibious capabilities and real-time integration with NATO networks during the REPMUS and Dynamic Messenger 2025 exercises off the coast of Portugal. This milestone highlights NATO’s commitment to adopting autonomous systems to protect coastal infrastructure and enhance joint force connectivity.

Rheinmetall’s Mission Master SP2 unmanned ground vehicle made a significant leap in amphibious autonomy and operational maturity during this year’s REPMUS and Dynamic Messenger exercises, as demonstrated in a Rheinmetall video released on November 18, 2025. Company engineers and NATO officials highlighted this as one of the clearest public demonstrations of the platform’s capabilities, describing how the vehicle seamlessly shifted from shoreline movement to semi-submerged tasks while feeding data directly into NATO’s evolving command and control architecture. The tests took place along the Portuguese coast, where NATO regularly evaluates cutting-edge unmanned systems for reconnaissance, protection, and multi-domain support roles.
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Rheinmetall’s Mission Master SP2 is a fully amphibious, autonomous ground vehicle designed for multi-domain operations, capable of executing surveillance, logistics, and combat support missions on land and at sea with seamless NATO system integration. (Picture source: Rheinmetall)

This deployment is distinguished by the Rheinmetall Mission Master SP2’s real-time interoperability with allied command and control systems during live missions, and its advanced autonomous waterborne navigation. Rheinmetall’s video, featuring rare footage of the SP2 deploying from a naval platform and traversing sea and coastal terrain, underlines the strategic importance of unmanned amphibious systems under NATO’s expanding multi-domain operations. During the exercise, the SP2 performed infrastructure surveillance, port security, naval fire-support observation, and dynamic rerouting under GPS denial.

Built on Rheinmetall’s second-generation SP2 platform, the Mission Master is engineered for full amphibious capability and high land mobility. It uses a rugged 8x8 electric drivetrain, enabling low acoustic and thermal signatures ideal for stealth operations in contested areas. For maritime maneuvering, the SP2 is equipped with integrated dual waterjets at the rear hull, giving it propulsion across inland waterways, surf zones, and flooded urban terrain. The chassis is fully sealed and IP-rated for saltwater operations, and the vehicle maintains directional stability in rough surf through adaptive software that adjusts propulsion and steering vectors in real time.

Technically, the SP2 is built around a modular architecture allowing for rapid reconfiguration across a range of missions. During REPMUS 2025, it was observed operating in a reconnaissance and surveillance configuration featuring a full suite of electro-optical and infrared sensors, acoustic detection systems, and AI-powered object classification tools. It also supports weapons integration, electronic warfare payloads, casualty evacuation kits, and even logistics modules. A tethered UAV launcher is reportedly under development, offering commanders organic aerial ISR capabilities directly from the UGV.

The platform features a digital open architecture compatible with NATO’s C4ISR systems, enabling plug-and-play integration with unmanned aerial and surface platforms. Its autonomous navigation software incorporates LiDAR-based mapping, obstacle avoidance, GPS-denied localization, and multi-path rerouting based on real-time threat analysis. Human operators can assume manual control at any point via Rheinmetall’s intuitive control console, which supports encrypted communications over secure mesh networks and tactical LTE.

The Mission Master SP2 brings a compelling mix of survivability, tactical flexibility, and low signature. Its main technical features include:

The SP2’s fully amphibious 8x8 all-terrain electric drivetrain provides mobility over both land and water. Its integrated dual waterjets ensure effective aquatic propulsion, while independent suspension and sealed hull construction make it resilient across flooded terrain and urban rubble. The vehicle measures approximately 2.95 meters in length, 1.65 meters in width, and stays under 1.5 meters high in its low-profile transport mode. It can carry up to 1,000 kg of mission-specific payloads, including ISR pods, remote weapon stations, medevac stretchers, or logistics racks. Silent electric motors support both stealth and endurance missions, while the modular payload interface allows for rapid mission reconfiguration.

Its advanced autonomous system is equipped with AI-powered navigation and adaptive decision-making tools. The vehicle can operate in GPS-denied environments and re-route dynamically in response to terrain or threats. Navigation and obstacle avoidance are guided by a combination of LiDAR, inertial navigation, and real-time mapping. Communication capabilities include encrypted mesh networking, tactical LTE, and optional SATCOM, providing real-time data relay and coordination with other unmanned systems. The SP2 is built for full NATO interoperability, enabling seamless integration into allied command-and-control structures.

This year’s REPMUS (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Unmanned Systems) and Dynamic Messenger 2025 exercises brought together over 2,500 personnel and more than 30 autonomous platforms from 17 nations. Rheinmetall’s Mission Master SP2 was among a small number of systems cleared for full amphibious integration across both scenarios, highlighting its operational maturity and alignment with NATO’s modernization priorities.

NATO’s deployment of the Mission Master SP2 signals an intensified focus on countering hybrid threats to critical maritime infrastructure. As adversaries use gray-zone tactics targeting ports, undersea cables, and coastal radar nodes, the SP2 offers decisive advantages by projecting force and conducting ISR in high-risk zones without endangering personnel. These attributes make such autonomous systems increasingly essential for alliance defense planning.

With its performance in Portugal now part of NATO’s broader experimentation portfolio, the SP2 positions Rheinmetall at the forefront of autonomous land-sea integration. Several allied nations with coastal defense priorities are reportedly evaluating the platform for future procurement. Further enhancements under consideration include weaponized variants with Rheinmetall’s Skyranger turret for mobile counter-UAS defense, potentially transforming the SP2 from a reconnaissance asset into a frontline combat multiplier.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.