Dutch troops conduct more SMASH C-UAS trials
The Royal Netherlands Army recently completed another live-fire trial of the SMASH fire control system, this time in Austria as part of a Dutch MoD evaluation of different methods to defeat small UAVs.
The Robotic Automated Systems platoon of the 13th Light Brigade tested SMASH over two days at up to 200m range in harsh weather conditions.
Manufacturer Smart Shooter claimed the results proved that the system was ‘highly effective’ as all 67 drone targets (whether hovering or moving) were successfully hit with up to three locked shots each.
Testing the tactical intercept capability of SMASH fits within the core C-UAS roadmap of the Dutch Armed Forces. It completed a previous live-fire C-UAS trial in the Netherlands in October.
Smart Shooter also claimed the system ‘may also be of value in protecting sensitive strategic assets such as air force bases, ships, or in military operations abroad’.
[Photo: Defensie Grondgebonden Luchtverdedigingscommando]
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
Shaping the future of defence: What 2025 holds for the global drone market
The UAV market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with innovations in technology and battlefield applications driving demand across military sectors. From the battlefields of Ukraine to NATO exercises and beyond, drones are transforming how wars are fought and supported.
-
Maris-Tech confirms customers signing up for Jupiter Drones codec and AI-powered system
Launched at AUSA in October, the company’s multi-stream video codec is attempting to bring a new lease of life to drone technology through its AI accelerator.
-
AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
-
US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
-
AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
-
Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.