Russian Rostec Develops 30mm Anti-Drone Round with Remote Detonator | WDS 2026

Russia Develops Drone-Busting Shell: A Glimpse into the Future of Anti-Drone Warfare

Russia’s state-owned Rostec corporation has unveiled a 30mm shrapnel round with a remotely detonated fuse, specifically designed to counter the growing threat of drones. This development, slated for debut at the World Defence Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, isn’t just about a new bullet; it signals a significant shift in how militaries are adapting to the proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The Rise of the Drone and the Need for Countermeasures

The use of drones has exploded in recent years, extending far beyond military applications. From commercial delivery services like Amazon’s Prime Air to agricultural monitoring and even recreational use, drones are becoming increasingly ubiquitous. However, this accessibility also presents a security challenge. We’ve seen drones used for illicit activities, including smuggling contraband across borders (a Reuters report highlighted this issue in Europe) and, most concerningly, as improvised weapons on the battlefield. The conflict in Ukraine, in particular, has demonstrated the devastating potential of even small, commercially available drones when weaponized.

Traditional air defence systems, designed to intercept aircraft and missiles, are often ill-equipped to deal with the low cost, small size, and maneuverability of drones. This has created a critical need for specialized counter-drone technologies.

How Rostec’s New Shell Works: Precision Shrapnel

The Rostec shell is designed for use with 30mm automatic cannons, commonly found on platforms like airborne combat vehicles, BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, and helicopters such as the Mi-28NM and Ka-52M. The key innovation lies in its remotely detonated fuse. Instead of relying on impact, the fuse is triggered based on the drone’s trajectory, calculated by the system. This allows for a targeted burst of shrapnel, maximizing the chances of a hit even against fast-moving targets.

Bekhan Ozdoev, Rostec’s Industrial Director, emphasized that the shell aims to “increase the probability of hitting small drones and loitering munitions.” This isn’t about a single, devastating explosion; it’s about creating a cloud of projectiles that significantly increases the likelihood of damaging or destroying the drone.

Beyond Russia: Global Trends in Anti-Drone Technology

Rostec’s development is part of a broader global trend. Several countries and companies are pursuing diverse approaches to counter-drone warfare. These include:

• Directed Energy Weapons: Systems like microwave jammers and laser weapons are being developed to disable drones electronically or physically. The US Army, for example, has been testing directed energy weapons for drone defence.
• Electronic Warfare (EW): Jamming the communication links between the drone and its operator is a common tactic. However, drones are becoming more sophisticated, employing frequency hopping and encryption to resist jamming.
• Kinetic Interceptors: These involve physically destroying the drone with missiles, projectiles, or even nets. Companies like Skywall 100 offer net-based systems for capturing drones.
• AI-Powered Detection and Tracking: Sophisticated algorithms are being used to identify and track drones, even in cluttered environments.

Pro Tip: Effective counter-drone strategies often involve a layered approach, combining multiple technologies to provide comprehensive protection.

The Future of Drone Warfare: Autonomy and Swarms

The evolution of drone technology isn’t slowing down. We’re likely to see increased autonomy in drones, meaning they will require less human control. This will make them harder to jam and intercept. The development of drone swarms – coordinated groups of drones operating together – presents a new challenge. Defending against a swarm requires systems capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously.

The US Department of defence is investing heavily in counter-swarm technologies, recognizing the potential threat. A recent DoD announcement details awards for programs focused on developing these capabilities.

Did you know? The cost of a basic commercial drone can be as low as a few hundred dollars, while a sophisticated anti-drone system can cost tens of thousands, or even millions, of dollars. This cost disparity is a major driver of innovation in affordable counter-drone solutions.

FAQ: Counter-Drone Technology

• Q: What is the most effective way to stop a drone?
  A: There is no single “most effective” method. A layered approach combining detection, jamming, and kinetic interceptors is generally recommended.
• Q: Are drones difficult to detect?
  A: Detecting small, slow-moving drones can be challenging, especially in urban environments. However, advancements in radar, acoustic sensors, and AI-powered detection systems are improving detection capabilities.
• Q: Is it legal to shoot down a drone?
  A: The legality of shooting down a drone varies depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances. Generally, it is illegal to damage or destroy a drone without proper authorization.

This new shell from Rostec, and the broader advancements in anti-drone technology, represent a critical arms race. As drones become more prevalent and sophisticated, the need for effective countermeasures will only continue to grow. The World Defence Show 2026 will undoubtedly provide further insights into the latest developments in this rapidly evolving field.

Want to learn more about the latest defence technologies? Explore our other articles on military innovation.