US Marines Strengthen Counter-Drone Capabilities with Target-Tracking Fire Control Technology.

The United States Marine Corps has confirmed a new order for the SMASH 2000L fire control system, developed by the Israeli company Smartshooter. This acquisition addresses an urgent operational requirement to equip dismounted combat units with an effective capability to counter micro and mini drones, which have become a persistent threat across contemporary battlefields. The order follows previous evaluations conducted by the Marine Corps, which had already tested the system and gained initial operational experience before moving forward with this procurement phase.
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Designed as a kinetic or "hard-kill" solution, the SMASH 2000L allows soldiers and Marines to physically destroy drones, unlike electronic warfare devices that aim to neutralize threats remotely (Picture source: SMARTSHOOTER)

The SMASH 2000L is the lightest handheld fire control system in Smartshooter's product line. It integrates artificial intelligence, computer vision, and advanced tracking algorithms, enabling ground forces to detect, track, and precisely neutralize both aerial and ground threats. Designed as a kinetic or "hard-kill" solution, the SMASH 2000L allows soldiers and Marines to physically destroy drones, unlike electronic warfare devices that aim to neutralize threats remotely. The system's effectiveness has been demonstrated in the field, particularly against small drones whose proliferation in conflict zones continues to pose operational challenges.

Initially selected and tested by the US Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO) and the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD), the SMASH 2000L was later deployed by US Special Forces, the Marine Corps, and several NATO member states, confirming its operational value across different armed forces.

Michal Mor, Smartshooter's CEO, noted that this new order represents progress toward the potential adoption of the system at the basic combat unit level, specifically within squads and sections. She also reiterated the company's commitment to providing the Marine Corps with kinetic solutions that have been validated under operational conditions.

Beyond the United States, the SMASH family of fire control systems is already in service with military and security forces in Israel, the United Kingdom, and other NATO allies. These systems are designed to enhance shooting precision, situational awareness, and lethality in complex environments where drone threats are widespread.

This new order from the US Marine Corps reflects the intention to respond swiftly and effectively to the challenges posed by lightweight drones on the battlefield. The SMASH 2000L stands as a practical and already fielded solution, marking a further step toward broader integration of counter-drone capabilities directly into the hands of dismounted combatants.