Proteus anti-drone system unveiled in 2025

In January 2025, the Army Ground Forces Technical Section (STAT) introduced the Proteus, an anti-drone warfare system developed by its "Artillery" group as part of a multi-month project. The system aims to offer a quick response to evolving battlefield threats, particularly the growing use of FPV (first-person view) drones in conflicts like Ukraine.

Proteus combines existing and new technologies

The Proteus features a 20 mm anti-aircraft cannon mounted on a 53T2 towed mount, paired with a SANDRA thermal camera and a computer system. These components are installed on a TRM 2000 truck. The cannon, originally developed by GIAT in the 1970s, has a range of 1,500 meters and can fire 700 rounds per minute.

Standard 2 adds AI and improved detection

The STAT is working on the second version of the Proteus with support from the Ministry's Artificial Intelligence Defense Agency (AMIAD). This version includes a new camera and AI algorithms that predict target trajectories, factoring in aircraft speed and weather. It also uses the PALADIN, a transportable vehicle designed by Scania based on the V3P "Vampire" model.

LPM confirms 50 Proteus systems by 2030

The 2024-30 Military Programming Act (LPM) confirms the Army will be equipped with fifty Proteus systems by 2030. However, a third version is already in development, as revealed by the STAT on LinkedIn. The project follows a step-by-step approach to enhance the system's capabilities against emerging drone threats.

Standard 3 focuses on electrification and advanced sensors

The third version of the Proteus will include an electrified mount and improved control systems for firing. It will also upgrade AI algorithms and add new detection sensors, though their exact nature remains unspecified. These may include a three-dimensional radar from FLIR Systems, which is already used in the ARLAD armored vehicle developed by the STAT.

Current anti-drone tactics involve multiple systems

The 35th Parachute Artillery Regiment (LPM), the reference unit in anti-drone warfare, currently uses a combination of the ARLAD VAB for detection, a NEROD jammer rifle to disrupt drones, and the Proteus system to destroy them. This multi-layered approach reflects the complexity of modern drone threats.