Russian authorities are exploring the possibility of protecting grain bulk carriers from drone attacks using mobile fire groups armed with machine guns, Bloomberg reports. This refers to an experience already applied to protect Russian convoys.

Passive measures, such as protective cables and nets stretched around the wheelhouse, are considered the first stage of defense. In addition, it is proposed to deploy armed boarding groups on ships. Weapons and fighters could board in Azov Sea ports, escort ships through the Kerch Strait, and leave them after entering the open sea. This concept is similar to the practice of engaging private security companies to protect against Somali pirates.

Presumably, the main armament of mobile groups could be Kord or NSV "Utes" heavy machine guns of 12.7 mm caliber. They are capable of hitting lightly armored targets and low-flying aerial targets at a range of up to 1500–2000 meters. 7.62 mm PKM or "Pecheneg" machine guns may also be considered: they are lighter and allow for faster response to sudden threats. The machine guns are equipped with special mounts for temporary installation on deck.

Additional means of protection could be AGS-17 "Plamya" or AGS-30 automatic grenade launchers, designed to hit openly located personnel and unarmored vehicles with fragmentation ammunition at a range of up to 1700 meters. There is already experience in using these weapons on water: in Vietnam, AGS-17s are installed on American-made boats to enhance firepower. Earlier, the Russian Armed Forces used the AGS-17 automatic grenade launcher and the ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun to combat kamikaze sea drones.