Protecting Against Drones: The Importance of Active Protection for the US Army

As the threat of drones continues to grow, investing in active protection is becoming increasingly important for the military. Active protection systems, such as Iron Fist, have proven to be effective in protecting soldiers fighting against groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. These systems work by using tiny radars to detect incoming threats and launching precision-guided rockets to intercept and destroy them.

One of the first US Army vehicles to be equipped with active protection is the M-2A4E1. This vehicle is crucial in conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine where drones are a constant threat from all directions. Traditionally, armored vehicles have focused on protecting against threats from the front, where enemy armored vehicles are most likely to attack. However, in conflicts like Ukraine, drones can easily attack from the sides, behind, or above where armor is weaker. Active protection systems provide all-around defense for vehicles, making them more resilient to drone attacks.

The US Army is recognizing the importance of active protection by equipping its vehicles with systems like Iron Fist. The initial deployment of M-2A4E1 vehicles with this technology is a positive step, and sending more vehicles to Ukraine will accelerate the process of protecting US soldiers in future conflicts. Investing in active protection will be crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations as drones continue to pose a growing threat worldwide.