A drone expected to carry more equipment or resist electronic attack needs additional protection and capacity. Added weight can demand a more powerful engine, greater lift, and more fuel. Miniaturization can offset only part of that growth. Larger and tougher drones could renew demand for concentrated 40 mm gunfire. That prospect creates a readiness problem when old weapons and their supporting stocks have already been sold off on the assumption that newer systems cover the threat.
Notable Point · 1:02:35-1:05:26
Drone protection can drive a return to heavier gun defences
Protecting drones against electronic attack adds weight and power demands, creating a possible route back to threats suited to concentrated 40 mm fire.