We are already accustomed to drones, large and small, currently playing a significant role in government organizations and armies around the world. They perform assault, reconnaissance and sometimes even search functions.
The United States Army is testing a somewhat unusual drone. The mini UAV in question can fire 40 mm grenades, and its main function is to eliminate targets hidden behind cover.
It is the Cerberus GL model, a portable drone weighing only 6 kg.
Made by Skyborne Technologies, it is a multi-purpose UAV, described by the manufacturer as follows:
"Cerberus GL has the ability to fire multiple 40mm grenades and perform ISR tasks before, during and after its fire mission, then return to the soldier for re-loading with cost-effective ammunition. All in a package under 6kg and with an endurance of 22 minutes."
Unlike small drones, which we are used to watching in movies and in photos, the Cerberus GL is a UAV with three rotors, which has a tilt mode for easier aiming and excellent hovering efficiency due to the use of small rotors. The UAV's design allows one to aim using the entire airframe, which allows to place the launcher near the center of gravity, thereby reducing its recoil.
In addition to the 40 mm grenade launcher, the Cerberus GL can also be equipped with micro rockets and 12-gauge shotguns.
The potential use of the drone is not limited to attacking hidden targets. It application includes features such as firing smoke grenades for crowd control, destroying enemy drones with a shotgun, and even initiating a hostage rescue mission with flash-bang grenades.
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According to online sources, the US Army test report of the Cerberus GL is expected to be completed in March 2020.
