PREVIEW

Britain’s soldiers are to get a helping hand shooting down drones thanks to an Israeli company’s gadget. The Smash counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS), developed by Israeli company Smart Shooter is designed to enhance the accuracy of standard assault rifles when tackling drones by integrating precision targeting algorithms and advanced electro-optical processing, the system ensures each round finds its target. Smash fire-control systems have been entering service with 16 Air Assault Brigade in 2024. Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said: “The importance of uncrewed aerial vehicles on the modern battlefield is undeniable.” Wing Commander Mark Bowden, Programmes Directorate, Counter-UAS SO1, added: “Smash is a proven capability already in service with our allies and partners. “As we have seen in Ukraine and other operational areas the UAS threat is growing significantly”. The contract, valued at under £4.6 million, aims to deploy the Smash C-UAS across the armed forces by the end of 2024.