Russian Military Unveils New Anti-Drone Vehicle: A Multi-pronged Aerial "Drone Hunter"
On January 10, 2025, according to a report by The Top War website, the Russian Army has been using various means to counter enemy drones in special operations. Recently, the Russian Ministry of Defense showcased a new type of anti-drone vehicle, which is based on the domestic VAZ-2121 Niva off-road vehicle and features high mobility and excellent off-road performance.
Vehicle Features
Platform Base: The vehicle is based on the VAZ-2121 Niva off-road vehicle, which is designed to be simple, easy to manufacture and maintain, and has high technical and operational characteristics.
Weapon Systems:
Multi-barrel Firing Device: A multi-barrel firing device is installed on a bracket in front of the cab, consisting of 24 barrels (3 rows horizontally, 8 barrels per row) for firing bullets or shotgun shells. This device is mounted on a movable platform with horizontal and vertical aiming mechanisms, and both aiming and firing can be remotely controlled from the operator's seat.
Rotating Turret: The rear platform of the vehicle is equipped with a rotating turret armed with a machine gun. Inside the turret, there is a frame that can hold six AK-12 assault rifles. The aiming and firing of the assault rifles are synchronized through corresponding mechanisms.
Smoke Grenade Launcher: Smoke grenade launchers are installed on the hood and rear of the vehicle body to provide smoke cover when necessary.
Combat Performance
Firepower Density: The vehicle is equipped with 6 machine guns and a 24-barrel "shotgun," providing high firepower density. However, the effective range varies. Machine guns are used for targets several hundred meters away, while the smoothbore system is used for close-range attacks.
Remote Operation: The 24-barrel "shotgun" is controlled by the operator through a control panel, and the work of the second gunner is simplified by electric drive, improving the convenience and efficiency of operation.
Electronic Equipment: Although the Ministry of Defense has not disclosed all details, the vehicle is likely equipped with some electronic devices, such as a radio for communication and receiving target indications, as well as possibly an electronic reconnaissance station—a drone detector.
Combat Application
High Mobility: The vehicle has high mobility and can quickly move to firing positions in special operations, quickly leave after completing tasks, and continue operations at other locations after short-distance maneuvers.
Multi-target Attack: The crew can simultaneously attack two different targets, with machine guns and smoothbore systems used for long-range and close-range attacks, respectively, forming two defensive echelons.
Future Outlook
Mass Production: This new type of anti-drone vehicle has already begun mass production and is in use within the troops. It is expected that the assembly of these off-road vehicles will continue, further enhancing the defensive capabilities of different divisions and units.
Continuous Improvement: The military will continue to use this successful equipment model based on the correct and reasonable concept, and future models with similar capabilities may emerge.
Overall, this new type of anti-drone vehicle is an interesting and effective solution based on existing equipment and components, capable of effectively countering drone threats in special operations.
