By Arie Egozi, Autonomy Global – Ambassador for Israel
Israeli company SmartShooter has further expanded the use of AI across its SMASH fire-control portfolio to boost the performance of combat soldiers in complex, high-stress engagements. Sharone Aloni, VP R&D at SmartShooter, said the company’s AI enables troops to hit targets faster and more accurately, automatically prioritizing and engaging the most critical threat at the moment of firing.
AI-powered SMASH systems use computer vision, machine learning and advanced ballistic computation to detect, lock and track targets autonomously, only releasing a shot when a hit is effectively guaranteed. According to the company, this approach can increase hit probability by up to 95% against small drones at 200 meters. It significantly reduces dependence on individual shooter skill in chaotic conditions.
Real-time image processing and AI-driven tracking are optimized for fast, maneuvering and partially concealed targets, including drone swarms. This helps to contain collateral damage in cluttered environments. Systems such as the SMASH 3000 can be networked to share situational awareness and integrate with wider battle-management and sensor architectures for coordinated engagements.
Field trials have demonstrated successful drone interceptions at ranges up to 400 meters, conserving ammunition while increasing lethality and engagement confidence. SMASH sights combine an optical day sight with sensors, image processing and AI. The shooter designates the target, and the system releases the round only when the trajectory ensures a hit. This improves first-round accuracy and reduces stray fire.
The same principle underpins SmartShooter’s kinetic counter-UAS capability, where computer-vision and tracking algorithms maintain lock on small, fast and erratic sUAS to provide dismounted forces an organic, rifle-mounted C-UAS solution. The system allegedly “quadruples” the probability of hitting designated targets.
US and other Western militaries are now procuring SMASH 2000L and SMASH 3000 variants to protect forward troops and critical assets against small drones. Repeat orders indicate that SMASH is becoming a key building block in advanced soldier-systems programs and evolving frontline counter-drone concepts of operation.