Smart Shooter, an Israeli defense firm, is seeing increased demand from across the US military for its kinetic counter-unmanned aerial systems (c-UAS) solutions, according to Vice President Scott Thompson. Speaking to Breaking Defense, Thompson cited the evolving threat posed by small drones as a key driver of interest in its products, which integrate optical sights and fire-control software to enable troops to shoot down UAVs with small arms.
The growing requirement reflects a broader shift in force posture as low-cost drones proliferate on battlefields from Ukraine to the Middle East. Kinetics-based interceptors offer a low-cost, high-volume alternative to expensive missile-based systems, allowing frontline units to defend themselves without relying on scarce air-defense assets. The technology extends the effective range and accuracy of standard infantry weapons against maneuvering drone targets.
Allied and partner nations are closely monitoring the US adoption of such systems. NATO members have accelerated their own c-UAS procurements, and several European armies are evaluating similar rifle-mounted solutions. Rival state actors, particularly those fielding drone swarms, are likely adjusting their operational planning as kinetic countermeasures become more widespread across US and allied ground forces.
Smart Shooter did not disclose specific contract values or procurement timelines in the interview. However, the company's growth trajectory suggests increasing budget allocations across US service branches as they prioritize drone-defense spending. Thompson noted that demand spans the Army, Marine Corps, and special operations communities, though exact dollar figures were not provided.
Analysts caution that kinetic solutions alone cannot address the full spectrum of drone threats, particularly swarms or larger UAVs with hardened frames. The comments reflect a single executive's perspective and may overstate the pace of adoption; official US military procurement data are not included in the source material.