Kalashnikov Concern, Russia's primary small arms manufacturer, said on Thursday it is developing 5.45mm rifle rounds specifically designed to disable drones. The armsmaker plans to mass-produce the rounds, formalizing a national effort to create drone-killing ammunition for individual troops. This marks a significant escalation in the adaptation of conventional small arms for modern aerial threats.
Though similar types of bullets have emerged sporadically on the Russian battlefield since last year, Kalashnikov's announcement signals a move toward standardized, large-scale production. The development reflects the growing tactical necessity to counter small, inexpensive drones that have become ubiquitous in conflicts like the war in Ukraine. Ukraine is also reportedly developing similar bullets, indicating a parallel global trend in defense technology.
The 30-round magazine is built for the AK-12 gas-operated assault rifle. Each bullet releases a 'multi-element projectile that significantly increases the probability of hitting UAVs,' according to the company. The firm stated the round can be used in both burst and single-fire modes and was tested against both a hovering drone and one in flight.
Mass production of such ammunition could alter infantry tactics, providing frontline soldiers with a direct, shoulder-fired counter-drone capability. It represents a cost-effective adaptation of existing, widely deployed weapon systems rather than relying on new, expensive electronic warfare systems. The move could pressure other nations' militaries to accelerate their own development of similar counter-small-UAV solutions for ground forces.
However, the effectiveness of such fragmented rounds against fast-moving or swarming drones in real combat conditions remains unproven at scale. Some analysts suggest electronic jamming or dedicated anti-drone systems may still be more reliable for consistent defense.