U.S. Military 5.56 & .308 Anti-Drone Ammo | SHOT Show 2026

Published on January 27, 2026
Duration: 8:03

This video from SHOT Show 2026 introduces 'Drone Round' ammunition, developed by Unlimited Ammo and Freedom Munitions. Designed for standard battle rifles in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm (.308), these rounds effectively turn a rifle into a long-range shotgun for engaging Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The 5.56 variants offer different projectile counts and ranges (30-50m for K-variant, up to 100m for L-variant), while the 7.62 variant extends effective range to 300 meters. Currently restricted to military and law enforcement, the company aims for future civilian availability. The rounds are compatible with suppressors and various barrel lengths.

Quick Summary

The 'Drone Round' ammunition, developed by Unlimited Ammo and Freedom Munitions, transforms standard rifles into anti-UAS platforms. Available in 5.56mm (30-50m K-variant, 100m L-variant) and 7.62x51mm (.308, 300m range), it functions like a long-range shotgun without weapon modification and is suppressor-compatible.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Anti-Drone Ammo
  2. 00:42Company Background: Unlimited Ammo & Freedom Munitions
  3. 01:22Product Concept: Rifle to Shotgun Conversion
  4. 02:345.56 Drone Round Variants (K & L)
  5. 03:307.62 (.308) Drone Round Performance
  6. 04:41Market Availability (MIL/LE Focus)
  7. 07:01Technical Compatibility (Barrel Lengths & Suppressors)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the 'Drone Round' ammunition?

The Drone Round is specialized ammunition designed for standard battle rifles in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm (.308) calibers. Its primary purpose is to effectively engage and neutralize Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or drones at various ranges.

What are the different variants of the 5.56 Drone Round?

There are two 5.56 variants: the K-variant, containing 8 projectiles effective up to 30-50 meters, and the L-variant, with 5 projectiles effective up to 100 meters. These cater to different engagement distances.

What is the effective range of the 7.62 (.308) Drone Round?

The 7.62x51mm (.308) variant of the Drone Round offers a significantly longer effective range, maintaining lethal groupings at distances up to 300 meters. This is attributed to its higher case volume and energy.

Can Drone Rounds be used with suppressors?

Yes, Drone Rounds are fully compatible with suppressors. Testing shows consistent ballistic performance across various barrel lengths, including when used with suppressors, without negatively impacting accuracy or effectiveness.

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