Ukrainian Troops Down Drones With 5.56 NATO Round as 7.62 Version Targets 300+ Meters
Updated
Updated · American Rifleman · May 10
Ukrainian Troops Down Drones With 5.56 NATO Round as 7.62 Version Targets 300+ Meters
1 articles · Updated · American Rifleman · May 10
Ukrainian operators recently shot down drones using Drone Round, a purpose-built 5.56/7.62 NATO cartridge that works with standard rifles and machine guns without weapon modifications or extra training.
The round is designed for the low-cost, fast-moving drones common in Ukraine, including fiber-optic-controlled models that electronic jamming cannot stop, making it a last-line kinetic defense for infantry.
Drone Round uses multiple projectiles to widen dispersion and raise hit probability: the 5.56 K carries eight projectiles to 50 meters, the 5.56 L carries five to 100 meters, and a 7.62 version is slated for 300+ meters.
U.S.-based developer Drone Round Defense says the ammunition is suppressor-compatible, runs at about 2,200 fps, and can be produced entirely in the United States at up to 350 million rounds a year.
The tests underscore how Ukraine has become a proving ground for counter-drone weapons as small UAS expose the limits of standard ball ammunition and push militaries toward layered defenses.
How will this 'shotgun shell for rifles' change infantry combat tactics against drone swarms worldwide?
As Russia deploys similar rounds, is the drone war evolving into a deadlier infantry-level arms race?
94.6% Drone Interception: How Ukraine’s STING Drones and Anti-Drone Ammunition Are Redefining Battlefield Defense
Overview
Ukraine’s battlefield is being transformed by the rapid evolution of drone warfare. As Russian drone attacks intensify, Ukrainian STING interceptor drones have set new records, proving the need for kinetic counter-drone solutions when electronic jamming is not enough. The rise of small FPV drones targeting infantry has led to the development of specialized anti-drone ammunition, giving soldiers a safer and more effective way to defend themselves, especially in urban areas. However, the chaotic drone environment increases the risk of friendly fire and collateral damage, making advanced battlefield management systems like DELTA essential for coordination and reducing mistakes. These innovations are reshaping tactics and driving a shift toward agile, scalable defense strategies.