Russia has launched a new UAV interception system called “Netcomet” to deal with the large number of aircraft in Ukraine’s possession. The system is designed to intercept drones, particularly those made by the Chinese giant which are relatively cheap and versatile. These drones come equipped with a good camera and can carry loads, making them useful for various purposes. They can even be turned into suicide UAVs in some situations. The “Netcomet” system is unique in that it can be attached to drones, allowing for intercepting enemy drones mid-air.
Other countries, such as Japan and the United Kingdom, also use UAV interception systems for security purposes. In the UK, both military and civilian capabilities are employed for capturing drones using nets. Japan uses such systems for securing public events and critical infrastructures. The Russian system’s uniqueness lies in its ability to be installed on almost any drone, making it versatile and adaptable to different situations.
Israel is working on re-implementing Vulcan cannons for intercepting UAVs, recognizing the security and economic benefits of this approach. The Vulcan cannon, also known as a racket in Israel, is based on a Gatling machine gun and was previously used in anti-aircraft systems mounted on APCs. Market sources indicate that using Vulcan for intercepting UAVs can be more cost-effective than other interception methods, with a significantly lower cost per interception compared to systems like Iron Dome.
It is important to have a thoughtful approach to drone interception, considering factors like friendly drone identification and avoiding unintended consequences. Implementing systems like the “Netcomet” UAV interception system can enhance security measures and provide more efficient ways to deal with the growing presence of drones in military and civilian airspace.