UK and US push forward counter‑drone technologies for battlefield use

The UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is collaborating with the British Army, industry partners and US allies on projects such as VANAHEIM and ANVIL to develop AI‑enabled drone‑counter systems. Field trials have taken place in Germany and Poland, with further testing planned in Lithuania. The effort aims to evaluate, accelerate adoption and integrate computer‑vision capabilities that help soldiers identify and engage aerial targets.

Northrop Grumman is also introducing new counter‑UAS hardware, including the M230LF Dual‑Feed Bushmaster chain gun that can switch between ammunition types instantaneously. Director of business development Rylan Harris said, “We built this technology because the need is real — and it’s ready now to help protect those on the front lines.” The system is designed to give warfighters rapid flexibility against both drones and ground threats.