The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has driven both sides to continuously innovate drone warfare, leading to increasingly sophisticated tactics and technologies.
Initial methods of countering drones, such as GPS jammers or control signal disruption, have become less effective as both Ukrainian and Russian forces adapt.
Recently Ukraine has started experimenting with what would become the worlds first hunter drone
The World’s First "Hunter Drone"
Russia has begun deploying drones equipped with fiber optic cables for direct control, making them immune to signal interference.
The only way to neutralize such drones is through physical destruction. Both sides have employed various strategies, including shotguns, but their limited range poses challenges.
A recent video circulating online showcases a Ukrainian drone, likely of the "Baba Yaga" type, carrying two lightweight shotguns.
In the footage, the drone approaches a Russian UAV from behind and, once within range, fires a shot that successfully brings it down.
Ukraine has been experimenting with armed drones for months. Efforts include mounting AK rifles on FPV drones and testing robotic assault units.
The "Baba Yaga" drone, capable of carrying up to 20 kg of payload, is particularly suited for such innovations.
Lightweight, single-shot shotguns such as the Turkish FRANCOLIN AXE SB-PG, which weigh around 1.6 kg, are ideal for integration.
With proper calibration, these shotguns can be equipped with sights to target enemy drones at distances of 15-25 meters. A well-piloted "hunter drone" with such a setup could be a highly effective weapon.
While the current version appears to be a prototype, the concept could be refined with advanced features.
An ideal iteration might include a rotating weapon mount, object-tracking AI algorithms, and a laser rangefinder for precise targeting.
