New Delhi: India’s indigenous defence sector received a major boost after Bengaluru-based SSS Defence delivered its T-12 counter-drone shotguns to the Indian Army Northern Command.
The T-12 counter-drone shotgun is designed to intercept low-flying drones and FPV unmanned systems at close range, offering a low-cost and highly practical battlefield solution. The induction reflects the Indian Army’s growing focus on anti-drone warfare and indigenous military technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Why the Indian Army is Deploying T-12 Anti-Drone Shotgun
Modern warfare has rapidly changed because of the increasing use of drones in border conflicts and surveillance missions. Small FPV drones are now being used for:
- Reconnaissance missions
- Explosive delivery
- Kamikaze attacks
- Border surveillance
- Infantry targeting
Military experts worldwide have observed that traditional rifles are often ineffective against fast-moving low-altitude drones.
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Shotguns, however, spread multiple pellets, increasing the chance of hitting drone propellers or sensitive electronics.
The Indian Army’s move follows lessons learned from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where shotguns became an important frontline anti-drone weapon.
What are the Features of the T-12 Counter-Drone Shotgun
The T-12 is a fully indigenous 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun developed by SSS Defence. According to defence reports, the system is optimized for close-range drone interception and tactical operations.
Main Specifications
- 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun
- 20-inch nitride-treated barrel
- Weight around 3.8 kg
- Five-round and ten-round detachable magazines
- Full-length Picatinny rail for optics
- High-strength 7075-T6 aluminium receivers
- Ambidextrous controls
- Multi-position buttstock with cheek rest
The shotgun reportedly neutralized drone targets during field evaluations at nearly 90 metres.
Cost-Effective Solution for Close-Range Drone Defence
One major advantage of the T-12 is affordability. Advanced anti-drone missile systems and electronic warfare platforms are expensive and not always practical for frontline infantry units.
The T-12 offers:
- Lower operational cost
- Faster deployment
- Simpler training
- Easy battlefield mobility
- Immediate response capability
This makes it ideal for troops operating in forward areas, trenches, urban combat zones, and border posts.
Indigenous Manufacturing Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat
The delivery of the T-12 highlights India’s growing private defence manufacturing ecosystem. SSS Defence has already developed sniper rifles, assault rifles, and other indigenous small arms platforms for military use.
The Indian Army’s adoption of indigenous systems also reduces dependence on imported weapon platforms and improves supply chain flexibility.
Defence analysts believe that homegrown anti-drone systems will become increasingly important as drone warfare expands along India’s sensitive borders.
Northtech Symposium 2026 Showcased Indigenous Innovation
The T-12 shotgun was also showcased during the Northtech Symposium 2026 held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The event focused on indigenous technologies related to:
- Infantry modernization
- Electronic warfare
- Drone defence
- Battlefield surveillance
- Future warfare systems
The platform reportedly attracted strong interest due to its dual role in tactical combat and drone neutralization.
Global Militaries are Also Adopting Similar Systems
Several countries are now adapting shotguns for counter-drone roles. International systems mentioned in defence reports include:
- Benelli M4 A.I. Drone Guardian
- Vepr-12 shotgun
- Remington 870 variants
- Hatsan Escort BTS-12
The growing use of such weapons confirms that low-cost drone interception systems are becoming essential for modern infantry forces.
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