Israel Tests 20 New Anti-Drone Weapons

Israel has tested 20 new counter-drone technologies, including guns, missiles, and UAV interceptors, in a large-scale defense trial aimed at neutralizing unmanned aerial threats.

The tests, led by the Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), featured major defense firms and startups competing to develop next-generation drone defense systems.

Nine Israeli defense companies, including Elbit Systems, Rafael, and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), participated in the trials at a testing range in southern Israel. They demonstrated interception capabilities against UAVs at various speeds, altitudes, and distances. The IMOD will now select the most effective solutions for rapid development and deployment.

Defense Minister Israel Katz, alongside senior defense officials, oversaw the trials, which were part of an accelerated competition to find new anti-drone technologies. "The UAV threat is evolving across multiple battlefronts, driven by Iran and its proxies," Katz stated. "We are fully committed to ensuring Israel’s skies remain protected."

The new technologies tested included:

• Elbit Systems’ radar-integrated interceptor drones and a 30 mm cannon for long-range defense.
• IAI’s C-UAS system, featuring an electric missile, short-range drone interceptor, and sensor network.
• Rafael’s Mini Typhoon, a remotely controlled weapon system for drone interception.
• Startups showcasing AI-driven UAV hunters, repurposed missile launchers, and autonomous counter-drone systems.

The counter-UAV trials come as Israel continues military operations in Gaza and the West Bank. According to the Palestinian health ministry and government media office, more than 61,709 Palestinians have been killed since October 7, 2023, with 14,222 still trapped under rubble. At least 884 Palestinians have been killed in the occupied West Bank during the same period.