With the increasing number of FPV drones on the front lines, new types of weapons have emerged to counter them. For example, EW systems, small arms, drone detectors, anti-drone rifles, etc., are most often used for neutralization. Today we will talk about an equally effective anti-drone measure — the net gun.
The enemy constantly modernizes its attack and reconnaissance UAVs: operating frequencies change or FPV drones on fiber optics are used. Under such conditions, EW systems do not always provide the desired result. That's when net guns come to the rescue.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the operating principle, advantages, and most popular models of net guns.
What is a net gun and where is it used?
Anti-drone net guns — are specialized portable devices that use a net to physically neutralize a target in the air. They are primarily used by the military as a means of close-range defense against enemy FPV drones and quadcopters, for cover during movement in vehicles, and for position defense. Therefore, it is important to remember that a net gun is deployed when the drone has practically reached its target.
Principle of operation of a net gun
A net gun works very simply: a strong net (with weights at the corners) is fired in the direction of the target, unfolds in the air, and entangles the propellers. As a result, the UAV smoothly loses altitude and falls. All this happens without explosions, and the shot itself is made with a special blank charge (using a pyrotechnic cartridge or compressed air).
Main structural elements
The design of an infantry net gun may vary depending on the type of system, but most models have the following basic elements:
- Launch mechanism — a pistol-type design responsible for launching the net towards the target.
- The net, as the main interception element, is made of strong, lightweight materials (e.g., nylon or Kevlar).
- Cartridges — replaceable blocks or containers inside which the net and projectile elements are located.
- Weights are attached to the edges of the net. During the shot, they ensure the inertial spread of the net to a given distance and its deployment in the air.
- Propellant element — a pyrotechnic cartridge or a compressed air system that, when activated, creates pressure and expels the weights from the barrel.
Advantages of use against drones
The main advantage of a net gun against drones is physical neutralization without the need for EW systems. This eliminates the need for complex frequency and channel setup.
Secondly, compared to many anti-drone systems, net guns have a simpler design.
Thirdly, such devices are characterized by quick readiness for use. They activate in less than 0.2 seconds at close range (up to 25–30 meters), when an enemy drone is already attacking.
In addition, a large engagement area (3 × 3 meters) allows for less than 100% accurate targeting. It is enough to simply cover it with a net.
Limitations and features of application
However, the net gun also has significant limitations that must be taken into account:
- short range;
- dependence on target speed (it is powerless against high-speed FPV drones);
- UAV maneuverability, which helps them easily avoid engagement;
- reduced effectiveness in strong winds, as well as due to obstacles (tree branches, wires, etc.) that hinder net deployment;
- ability to work on only one target at a time.
In addition, after use, many models require reloading, cartridge replacement, pneumatic system refilling, or net repacking.
That is why such systems are most often used as an additional element of multi-layered drone countermeasures. They cannot provide 100% protection.
Popular net gun models
Finally, we offer a closer look at the three most popular Ukrainian-made net gun models. This will help you choose the right option for your needs.
Net gun «Chipa» — a disposable pistol-type device developed by BlueBird Tech. To «fire» the net (3 × 3 m), simply pull the safety pin, aim, and press the button. The lightweight body (620 g) allows the device to be carried in a pouch, vest, or backpack without additional burden. Effective range of use — up to 25 meters.
Net gun «Ptashka» — is a short-range device from the manufacturer Ptashka Drones. The net size is 3.5 × 3.5 m, and the engagement range is 25 m. The loaded net gun weighs 780 g. The presence of a holster and a replaceable cartridge ensures quick charge replacement and convenient transportation. In addition, it operates almost silently and does not reveal the firing position of the soldiers.
Net gun «MITLA» from the manufacturer Teneta Defence — is a disposable device for quick neutralization of FPV drones. Its weight is only 365 g, and the net area is 3.5 × 3.5 m. The maximum effective range — up to 25 meters. The net gun is equipped with a holster that securely holds the device, protects against impacts, and provides control over the safety.
More technical specifications and ordering options can be viewed on our website.
Conclusion
Thus, a net gun — is a mobile means of close-range counteraction to FPV drones, which can become critically important at the moment of a direct attack, when there is no time for other measures. The use of these «pistols» proves that countering enemy UAVs does not always require complex technological solutions.
At Flash Army, you can order net guns of various types and manufacturers. They do not take up much space in the equipment, but can often save lives.
