In all honesty, five years ago, it would have been considered a joke to suggest that shotguns would be frontline equipment against drones. Today, however, military training instructors and competitive shooters are joining forces to make the humble shotgun a primary defense against hordes of FPV drones. The tactics are accurate, the equipment is specialized, and the talent involved distinguishes novices from veterans. Here’s a closer look at the five best tactics for keeping drones grounded and troops safe.
5. Specialized Training—From Clay Ranges to Combat
Knowing how to line up and shoot is not enough. Contemporary C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Air System) operators are taking a page from clay shooting masters. Lieutenant Marco Angelelli, a reserve Italian Air Force officer and FITAV competitor, has modified SKEET and Compak Sporting drills to reflect the uncontrolled flight characteristics of FPV drones. Training occurs on clay disciplines such as La Torre in Pisa, with target drones that are repairable and can simulate in-service threats.
As Angelelli describes, “Our C-UAS training spans from simple SKEET practice to advanced courses utilizing target drones that mimic real threats but can be easily fixed and reused.” It’s not just about shooting targets—it’s about remaining calm, prioritizing threats, and developing instinctive reactions under stress.
4. Military-Grade Tungsten Ammunition—Precision at Long Range
Birdshot won’t do the job. The true advantage lies in tungsten-charged shells meant to penetrate drones from distances greater than 100 meters while sustaining close shot patterns. They shoot much better than standard hunting ammo, providing consistent energy and accuracy where each millisecond matters.
Lieutenant Angelelli observes, “The military-issue tungsten cartridges have more penetration energy at longer distances and keep a more compact spread, which is vital when firing at drones traveling at high speeds.” NORMA AD-LER rounds, 12/70 caliber with tungsten charges, are popular in training and combat environments.
3. Critical Equipment—Detect, Protect, and Fire
You can’t simply grab a shotgun and do well. An advanced C-UAS operator wears an accurate blend of detection equipment, personal protection, and ammunition. RF detectors assist in finding drones by their signals, thermal night vision provides for nighttime engagement, and vest carriers contain 50–100 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition.
Advanced ballistic protection protects the operator from shrapnel, and ergonomics and comfort provide for prolonged effectiveness. As Angelelli succinctly states, “Equipment is essential.”. It begins with an RF detector, night vision, a rugged vest for ammunition, and added ballistic protection to make it through possible counterattacks.
2. The Benelli M4 AI Drone Guardian—A Revolutionizing Shotgun
Not all shotguns are created equal. The Benelli M4 AI Drone Guardian is specifically designed for anti-drone operations, with the Advanced Impact barrel for 100+ meter range, telescoping stock for better handling, corrosion resistance for extreme weather, and a holographic sight for quick target acquisition. Lieutenant Angelelli states, “For C-UAS missions, reliability under all conditions and a reliable range of at least 100 meters are a must, and the Benelli M4 provides both.” Combined with tungsten-loaded NORMA AD-LER shells, it is now a drone defense squad cornerstone, bested only by precision and consistency.
1. FITAV Clay Shooting Techniques—Mastering the Swarm
In the end, skill conquers equipment. FITAV shooting methods for clay instruct operators on how to follow and head incoming targets that imitate the speed and unpredictable flight of FPV drones. SKEET drills such as 1 Mark, 6 Pull, and 8 Pull are designed specifically to build timing, accuracy, and reaction.
According to Angelelli, “The most efficient training begins with clay pigeon shooting on SKEET platforms, replicating drones flying at approximately 90 km/h.”. This develops the coordination necessary to counter swarms.” FITAV-enabled programs are currently training Italian soldiers, and NATO forces may soon follow suit. Every well-trained operator puts more probability on halting drones before they endanger lives.
So the next time you spot a soldier with a shotgun and a bandolier full of tungsten shells, don’t sell them short. They may be the last line of defense against FPV drones in the new war on chaos.