Skyborne Hunter: The US Army's New Armed Drone with Shotgun Capability
The US Army has authorized the purchase of the Cerberus MI, a reusable unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Skyborne Technologies USA. This combat drone is uniquely outfitted with either a 12-gauge shotgun or a 40mm grenade launcher, designed for direct-fire engagements. It supports rapid reloading and is capable of multiple sortie missions. In compliance with Blue UAS standards and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the Cerberus MI has been officially added to the US military’s approved list of “Blue UAS” drones available for procurement.
Specifications and Operational Features
The Cerberus MI falls under Group 2 UAV classification, weighs approximately 18 kilograms, and offers about 35 minutes of flight time when armed. It can be equipped with the HAVOC 40mm grenade launcher or the CHAOS shotgun using 12-gauge ammunition. Approval for its acquisition followed thorough cybersecurity evaluations, supply chain security assessments, and compliance with Blue UAS certification standards. The drone employs EXITUS AI software for precision targeting, ensuring operator-controlled engagement without autonomous target selection.
In 2024, Ukraine introduced its own armed drone, the Winchester, equipped with shotguns to counter Russian drones and infantry. The Winchester drone leverages shotguns' effectiveness at close range through shot dispersion. Footage demonstrates the drone tracking and destroying a Russian UAV, as well as engaging enemy combatants. These advancements highlight the expanding role of weaponized drones in modern warfare globally.
The US Army’s move to integrate armed drones marks a shift in military tactics, emphasizing the fusion of cutting-edge technology with frontline operations. Deploying such UAVs can considerably boost combat effectiveness while reducing risks faced by soldiers. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s parallel development of similar systems underscores a worldwide trend toward embracing drone technology as a strategic asset in contemporary conflicts.
As the US military enhances its drone capabilities with the Cerberus MI, other nations are also ramping up their aerial defense systems. For instance, Spain, Belgium, and Poland are supplying ammunition to Ukraine as the country prepares to deploy 400 interceptor drones. This collaborative effort underscores the growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare and international defense strategies.