Image source: topwar.ru
The Swiss company SwissP Defense (from the Beretta Defense Technologies concern) has introduced a new line of special SHATTER4K ammunition designed to protect infantry from small and medium-sized drones.
Allegedly, the new cartridges can be used by a wide range of existing assault rifles and machine guns without making any changes to the weapon. They are currently available in 5.56 x 45 and 7.62 x 51 mm calibers.
According to the developer, to increase the probability of damage, the SHATTER4K cartridge is based on a multi-element design (the principle of a multi-bullet shot). After departure from the muzzle, four submunitions are released, which continue to move with a slight dispersion along the firing axis. The purpose of this approach is to increase the likelihood of a direct hit on maneuverable aerial targets such as multicopters.
Image source: topwar.ru
Unlike the classic shotgun, which forms a "cone" of striking elements expanding in all directions (up, down, left, right) upon departure, SHATTER4K operates on the principle of echeloned or linear dispersion – submunitions move in a chain or a very narrow beam strictly along the flight path.
Conventional shot quickly loses speed and energy due to the poor aerodynamics of the balls, while SHATTER4K contains, in fact, four small bullets that retain high flatness, lethal force and accuracy, "covering" the silhouette of the drone, even if the shooter was a little mistaken in determining the distance or pre-emption.
Image source: topwar.ru
The developer claimed only the effective range of fire when using the caliber.50 BMG (12.7 x 99 mm), without saying anything about 5.56 x 45 and 7.62 x 51 mm. But, according to him, the firing distance is deliberately limited to reduce the risk of collateral damage.
According to representatives of the company, unlike similar systems on the market, the use of its cartridges to combat UAVs does not lead to barrel wear.:
The new product may be of interest to the American command. Since 2024, the Marine Corps has been searching for multi-element ammunition ranging from 5.56 x 45 mm to 40 mm in order to enhance infantry protection against UAVs.
