Analysis: Lessons from Ukraine War how small arms and advanced systems redefine drone defense.

The Ukrainian war has provided invaluable lessons in countering aerial drones, FPV (First-Person View) drones, and loitering munitions. The conflict has forced both sides to innovate rapidly, particularly in the realm of air defense. Ukraine’s experience offers a blueprint for future warfare, emphasizing the need for layered defenses, cost-effective solutions, and adaptability in the face of evolving aerial threats.
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Ukrainian soldiers target and destroy a Russian Shahed-136 kamikaze drone at close range using a ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun mounted on a truck, showcasing mobile air defense capabilities in action. (Picture source: MilitaryNewsUA X account)

One of the most striking elements of the Ukrainian experience is the effectiveness of small-caliber weapons against drones. Mobile air defense teams equipped with ZU-23-2 automatic cannons, mounted on trucks for rapid deployment, have been instrumental in intercepting Russian Shahed-136 drones. These 23mm twin-barreled automatic cannons, initially designed for anti-aircraft use, have proven capable of destroying drones during their low-altitude, terminal approach phase. The combination of high mobility and a rapid rate of fire allows these units to adapt to the dynamic nature of drone warfare, particularly when drones are deployed in swarms.

Shotguns have emerged as another practical solution for frontline soldiers to counter FPV drones. Ukrainian forces have adopted semi-automatic shotguns, such as the Safari HG-105M and Hatsan Escort BTS 12, using buckshot cartridges to take down low-flying drones. FPV drones, often used for reconnaissance or precision strikes, are fast and operate at very low altitudes, making them difficult targets for larger, more advanced systems. The shotguns provide an inexpensive, easy-to-deploy option for infantry, particularly in urban or trench warfare scenarios where FPV drones pose an immediate threat.

The Gepard Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG), supplied by Germany, has been a game-changer for Ukraine’s drone defense strategy. Equipped with twin 35mm Oerlikon cannons and guided by advanced radar, the Gepard has proven especially effective against loitering munitions like the Shahed-136. Its programmable AHEAD ammunition, which disperses sub-projectiles in the target's path, ensures high lethality against small, fast-moving drones. Ukrainian forces have successfully used the Gepard to protect critical infrastructure and urban centers, particularly during large-scale swarm attacks. The mobility and precision of the Gepard make it an ideal middle layer in a multi-tiered air defense system, bridging the gap between smaller-caliber weapons and advanced missile systems.

Despite the successes of small-caliber weapons and anti-aircraft guns, Ukraine has also relied on modern air defense missile systems, such as the IRIS-T SLM, NASAMS, and Patriot, to provide a robust defense against drones and other aerial threats. These systems have proven highly effective at long-range interception and protecting high-value targets. However, their use against low-cost drones like the Shahed-136 highlights a critical issue: cost inefficiency. Firing expensive, high-precision missiles at drones costing as little as $20,000 is unsustainable during prolonged conflicts, particularly when facing large numbers of drones.

The war has also revealed the limitations of these advanced systems when faced with drone swarms. Loitering munitions often operate at low altitudes and have small radar cross-sections, making them challenging to detect and intercept using traditional missile systems. This has reinforced the need for a layered defense approach, where advanced systems handle high-altitude and long-range threats, while small-caliber weapons and systems like the Gepard address lower-altitude, close-range targets.

A critical takeaway from the Ukrainian experience is the importance of mobility and flexibility. Both small-caliber systems like the ZU-23-2 and larger platforms like the Gepard have demonstrated the value of rapid deployment and repositioning in response to evolving threats. Static systems are vulnerable in dynamic combat environments, whereas mobile units can adapt to shifting drone flight paths and operational priorities.

Ukrainian Gepard SPAAG, supplied by Germany, uses twin 35mm cannons and advanced radar to effectively counter loitering munitions like the Shahed-136. (Picture source Ukraine MoD

The conflict in Ukraine has also underscored the need for integrated technology and AI-driven solutions. Combining small-caliber weapons, radar, and AI-enhanced fire control systems can significantly improve detection and engagement success rates. For example, integrating drones and counter-drone systems into a unified command-and-control network ensures faster response times and more efficient resource allocation. AI can enhance threat prioritization, especially during swarm attacks, where human operators might struggle to manage multiple targets simultaneously.

For future conflicts, the Ukrainian experience highlights the necessity of a comprehensive, multi-layered defense strategy against aerial drones, FPV systems, and loitering munitions. Small-caliber weapons provide a cost-effective frontline solution, anti-aircraft systems like the Gepard offer a critical middle layer, and modern missile systems serve as a high-capability shield for long-range and high-altitude threats. These layers must work in unison, supported by advanced sensor technology, AI integration, and mobile platforms.

The war in Ukraine has also emphasized the importance of training and adaptability for counter-drone operations. Soldiers have rapidly adapted to using unconventional weapons like shotguns for drone defense, and mobile air defense teams have learned to respond quickly to drone incursions. This adaptability will be a crucial element of future conflicts, where technological advances and new drone tactics will continue to challenge traditional defense paradigms.

Ultimately, Ukraine’s experience has reshaped the understanding of modern drone warfare. The combination of layered defenses, cost-effective countermeasures, and technological integration will be essential for any military preparing to face the growing threat of drones, loitering munitions, and other unmanned aerial systems in future conflicts.