The Russian NPP "Start" named after A. I. Yaskin has patented a method for combating small drones and loitering munitions using an anti-aircraft gun that accelerates a projectile with compressed air or inert gas. The stated goal is to hit aerial targets without the characteristic unmasking signs of a conventional shot, keeping the installation's position hidden.
According to the description of the development, gas flows from portable high-pressure cylinders through a flexible hose and a pneumatic valve into the barrel chamber. A high-angle trajectory is provided for firing, the initial projectile velocity can reach 400 m/s, and the initial pressure in the barrel bore is 300 atmospheres.
The document lists different types of ammunition: with flechette-like damaging elements, shrapnel and fragmentation, as well as with a deployable anti-drone net. Smoke, illuminating, and self-igniting ammunition are also provided. The net variant, according to the authors, will allow the installation to be used for protecting civilian objects, including in dense urban areas.
Target engagement is assumed to occur at the upper part of the projectile's high-angle trajectory. The design is intended for stationary, mobile, portable, and naval anti-aircraft installations. The patent also mentions alternative weapon options — for example, electromagnetic and gas.
The authors associate the proposed approach with the difficulties of intercepting small-sized drones with traditional air defense systems. The description provides estimates for detecting such targets and the consumption of anti-aircraft ammunition.
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