Israeli drone can fire assault or sniper rifles as it hovers over target

The Smash Dragon weapons system, designed by Israelis, can be mounted on different forms of unmanned aerial platforms.

The Smash Dragon can hit static and moving targets with deadly precision: Picture: Smart Shooter

Drone warfare has taken a significant step forward with the development of a system that can carry and fire assault or sniper rifles as it hovers over a target.

The Smash Dragon weapons system, designed by an Israeli company, can be mounted on different forms of unmanned aerial platforms.

The most sophisticated armed drones deployed in wars have been capable of launching guided missiles and bombs. The most advanced is the American Reaper, used extensively in Afghanistan. However, the new unmanned platform armed with a rifle, announced by the company Smart Shooter, means robot infantry could fly overhead and launch attacks with a fire control system that remains steady however fast the drone is travelling.

In live firing tests, stabilising equipment enabled the Smash Dragon weapon to hit static and moving targets with precision. The trigger for the assault or sniper rifle carried by the drone is fired remotely from a ground station by an operator sitting in front of a monitor. Michal Mor, chief executive of Smart Shooter, said the drone could be safely controlled “from a distance”.

The company, which is based in Israel, has developed an ultra-light drone platform to carry the guns. “When it comes to drones, platform weight is a critical factor as it impacts mission endurance and cost,” Mr Mor said.

The Pentagon is a potential customer. Last year the US ­Defence department contracted the Israeli company to design a smart sight for rifles used by special ­operations troops.

The Times