Drone defense for the police

The threat posed by tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is also increasing in police operations: from spy drones and disruptors to potentially dangerous deliveries. SMASH from SMARTSHOOTER offers an immediately available, field-proven fire control system solution that transforms conventional firearms into intelligent precision systems — tailored to the requirements of the police: extremely economical, small, handy, lightweight, and easily transportable.

Why SMASH is relevant for police drone defense

Drones differ from traditional targets: they are small, highly maneuverable, and have variable flight profiles. A particular problem is that airborne targets often do not offer a visual horizon — their size, speed, and flight direction are difficult for humans to assess reliably. SMASH addresses these challenges by automatically calculating the complex parameters of target tracking and ballistics and only allowing the shooter to fire when the probability of hitting the target is high. The goal: a single, precise shot with maximum effectiveness — “one shot, one hit.”

Technical core — how SMASH works

SMASH is an electro-optical fire control technology consisting of sensors (camera, laser rangefinder), a powerful algorithm for target analysis, and a ballistics calculator. The system determines distance, direction, target speed, and relevant environmental parameters in real time and creates an aim point for the shooter. In particular, SMASH reliably records visual parameters even when there is no natural horizon: size, movement, and course are extracted from image data and distance measurements and evaluated — information that is often imperceptible to humans under operational pressure. The hit is only approved when the system confirms a high probability of success — this reduces dispersion, misfires, and collateral damage.

Robust against future developments

SMASH is designed as a generic fire control platform: it is not tied to a single UAV model and can be adapted to changing threat situations via software updates. The system is designed to remain effective even against increasingly hardened drone concepts — such as radio-filtered, wired, or GPS-resistant systems. The aim is to damage the drone with accurate fire so that it becomes unable to fly.

Ammunition and flexibility — decision-making leeway for operational forces

SMASH can be programmed for different types of ammunition. Special anti-drone ammunition types with reduced range and thus reduced danger zone are now available on the market — for example, plastic projectiles or other designs that minimize ricochets and range. Typical calibers/types are:

• 5.56 / .223 — lighter caliber for short to medium ranges.
• 7.62 / .308 – more target energy for larger drones and greater distances.
• Shotgun ammunition – for very short distances; advantage: large target area.

SMASH can be programmed for these and future types of ammunition, ensuring that the system remains flexible and adaptable to the tactical situation in the long term.

Product diversity and application options

SMARTSHOOTER offers a wide range of compact devices – with and without laser rangefinders. Examples: 1× magnification solutions such as the SMASH 3000 series for very fast, close-range applications; the X4 model with 4× magnification for longer ranges; and a remote-controlled weapon station that is operated via tablet, locks onto the target itself and only requires the operator to confirm the shot. This range allows adaptation to different applications — mobile, portable, or stationary.

The system is extremely economical: low logistics costs, reduced ammunition consumption thanks to accurate single shots, and low integration costs. SMASH is small, handy, and lightweight — quick to deploy and immediately ready for use. This makes it particularly suitable for dismounted forces and mobile police units.

Training and shooting exercises — practical preparation for real-life situations

IEA MIL-OPTICS and SMARTSHOOTER provide training in police drone defense at their own shooting range. There, it is possible to shoot at the required steep upward angles — a training aspect that is usually particularly problematic for police units. The exercises include realistic scenarios with different trajectories and distances, ammunition and caliber selection, and crash zone assessment. This practical training gives officers experience in dealing with upward-angle shots, operational pressure, and debris assessment — enabling them to use the system safely and effectively.

The German Armed Forces and numerous other NATO countries have introduced Smartshooter devices. In exercises and certified tests, hit probabilities have been significantly increased — from previously less than 20% to values above 80% with trained teams and suitable ammunition/platform.

Logistics, maintenance, complete solutions

As a partner in Germany, IEA MIL-OPTICS offers technical support, spare parts supply, and on-site repair services. Systems are available at short notice and can be maintained and calibrated within Germany. Upon request, IEA delivers a complete solution — including a suitable weapon and coordinated equipment — so that authorities receive a turnkey, ready-to-use solution.

Conclusion

SMASH is an operational, field-proven fire control system solution that enables police forces to combat drones accurately and efficiently, even under difficult conditions. With its programmability for different types of ammunition, compact design, ease of use, wide range of products, and practical training, SMASH offers real added value for police units that need to arm themselves against the growing UAV threat.