**Title: Russian Arms Giant Showcases Pioneering Anti-Drone Rounds**
In a significant development within military technology, the Russian defense conglomerate Rostec has unveiled a new anti-drone round as part of its Mnogotochie (Ellipsis) project. This innovative ammunition features a unique design comprising three-element bullets that can be utilized in standard small-arms munitions. The project, which was introduced earlier this year, is currently undergoing trials with the Russian army.
On Friday, Rostec released a video demonstrating the capabilities of the Mnogotochie rounds at a testing range. The footage showcased the munitions in action, highlighting their effectiveness against various targets, including both stationary and moving drones.
The Mnogotochie round is a variant of a multiple-projectile cartridge designed for rifled weapons. Each bullet is constructed from a special bronze-like alloy and consists of three stacked elements. This design allows the bullets to maintain stability through spin, making them compatible with muzzle brakes. Unlike traditional shotgun rounds, the spread of the Mnogotochie rounds increases the likelihood of hitting and disabling small first-person view (FPV) drones, which have become increasingly prevalent in modern warfare.
According to the developers, the 5.45x39mm Mnogotochie round is effective at ranges of up to 150 meters, while the larger 7.62x54mm version can engage targets at distances of up to 300 meters. The testing video illustrated the rounds being fired in both single shots and bursts, demonstrating their high penetration capabilities and effective dispersion patterns.
At a distance of 100 meters, the Mnogotochie munitions have been shown to consistently penetrate a 25mm layer of wood backed by a 0.8mm steel sheet, indicating their potential effectiveness against various obstacles. This performance is particularly relevant in combat scenarios where drones are employed for reconnaissance or attack purposes.
The rationale behind the development of the Mnogotochie round is to provide troops with an efficient solution for countering drone threats without the need for dedicated anti-drone weapons. This approach allows soldiers to carry lightweight magazines filled with the new ammunition, integrating anti-drone capabilities into existing weapon systems.
While series manufacturing of the Mnogotochie rounds has already commenced, the ammunition is still considered to be in the development phase, with potential upgrades expected in the future. The introduction of this innovative round reflects ongoing efforts by defense manufacturers to adapt to the evolving landscape of modern warfare, where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) play a critical role.
As military operations increasingly incorporate drone technology, the Mnogotochie project represents a strategic advancement in the Russian military's arsenal, aiming to enhance their capabilities in countering aerial threats effectively.