Kalashnikov deploys specialized shotguns against Ukrainian drones, creating unexpected tactical advantage.
Russian Shotgun Adaptation for Drone Warfare
The war in Ukraine has transitioned from armored assaults to positional warfare where drones play a crucial role. Russian technicians at the Izhsk Mechanical Plants, part of Kalashnikov Concern, have adapted the popular M-155 hunting shotgun to combat aerial units.
This modified version features a Picatinny rail on the receiver, a large capacity magazine (6 rounds of 12 x 76 mm caliber), and can be equipped with both collimator sights and night vision scopes, making it ideal for shooting moving targets at any time of day.
Mass Production and Deployment
Production of the new shotgun has begun in earnest, with thousands already delivered to the front. Mikhail Melnikov, managing director of the Izhsk plants, stated that the company is expanding its production capabilities to ensure the weapon reaches every frontline unit.
The Russian military has also launched large-scale exercises focused on tactics for using this new weapon. Additionally, specialized ammunition called IGLA-100, made of tungsten, nickel and iron alloy, has been developed for use with these shotguns.
Last Line of Defense
While using a shotgun against modern drones may seem archaic at first glance, Russian soldiers explain it serves as the “last line of defense” against drones that penetrate air defense and electronic jamming layers.
Western specialists have examined Russia’s approach, concluding that despite its apparent simplicity, the tactic could be lethally effective.
Lessons for NATO
“For NATO, the Russian trajectory represents both a warning and a lesson. The warning is that drone density will erode even advanced air defense networks on the tactical battlefield. The lesson is that cheap, human-operated, close-range layers will be needed regardless of the sophistication of higher-level systems,” according to Army Recognition portal.
“The Russian offensive with the MP-155 shotgun and specialized ammunition represents an industrial return to basics, and its necessity is likely the clearest evidence that no anti-drone system in Ukraine—Russian or Ukrainian—is anywhere near reliability.”
Poland’s Approach
Poland has not yet publicly considered such extreme solutions. The country is building a multi-layered air defense system, with a separate drone defense shield called “San” expected to be presented in the coming days.
