US Marines Order More Counter-Drone Systems From SMARTSHOOTER
AI Analysis
SMARTSHOOTER has received a $3.4 million (potential $5.8M) follow-on contract from the US Marine Corps for its SMASH 2000LE/3000SA counter-drone fire control systems. The system utilizes AI and computer vision to enhance squad-level drone neutralization capabilities. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in late 2026.
Key Takeaways
- The US Marine Corps is procuring the SMASH 2000LE/3000SA system, a gun-mountable C-UAS solution.
- SMASH systems integrate AI and computer vision for threat identification and data sharing.
- This is a follow-on contract, indicating satisfaction with initial deployments and a continued need for this capability.
- SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH systems are also utilized by the US Army, US Air Force, US Navy, IDF, and NATO allies.
- The contract includes options for additional units, spare parts, and training, suggesting a potential for expanded deployment.
Why It Matters
The continued investment in SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH systems highlights the growing US military prioritization of C-UAS capabilities at the tactical edge. This indicates a shift towards empowering small unit leaders with organic counter-drone defenses, reducing reliance on centralized systems. The widespread adoption across multiple US branches and NATO suggests a standardized approach to low-altitude threat mitigation is emerging.
US Marines Order More Counter-Drone Systems From SMARTSHOOTER
Soldier practices target lock-on against an incoming drone using Smartshooter C-UAS assistive sight. Photo: Spc. Elijah Magaña/US Army
Israeli defense company SMARTSHOOTER has secured a $3.4-million follow-on contract to supply a new batch of counter-unmanned aerial system fire control systems for the US Marine Corps.
The package covers the SMASH 2000LE, also designated SMASH 3000SA, a gun-mountable device designed to assist squad-level units in neutralizing drone threats, autonomous ground platforms, and other low-altitude targets.
SMASH 2000LE uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to transmit threat information across troops, battle manager software, and other nodes in the field.
The deal includes options for additional sets, spare parts, and training support, bringing the potential contract value up to $5.8 million if exercised.
Transfer of the optic solutions will begin in late 2026, while corresponding services are scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
Associated processes will be coordinated with the Marine Corps Systems Command, which holds oversight of the initiative.
‘Further Validation’
The latest agreement follows SMARTSHOOTER’s separate SMASH deals with other US military customers, further expanding its footprint in the American defense market.
The firm’s SMASH product line has already been ordered by the US Army and the US Air Force, and is now operational with the Israel Defense Forces as well as other NATO members.
Last June, the firm signed its first SMASH contract with the US Navy for $1.8-million.
“This award provides further validation of the operational value of our SMASH systems and their ability to address the growing drone threat at the tactical edge,” said Michal Mor, CEO at SMARTSHOOTER.
“With deliveries to the US Marine Corps and the US Navy expected in the coming months, we see continued operational urgency for deploying precise, reliable, and field-ready solutions.”
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