SSS Defence has delivered its T-12 shotguns to the Indian Army’s Northern Command. The number is not yet specified. The T-12 is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun featuring a 20-inch nitride barrel and can be fed with five- or ten-round magazines. It includes a full-length Picatinny rail for easy mounting of optics. The shotgun is indigenously designed and manufactured in India by the company. It is finding a new role, as seen in the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, where it is used to neutralise low-flying enemy drones. The shotgun weighs 3.8 kg. The T-12 is being showcased at the Northtech Symposium 2026 held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from May 4 to May 6.

Both the upper and lower receivers are crafted from high-strength 7075-T6 aluminium, ensuring the weapon remains relatively lightweight without compromising structural integrity. SSS Defence has demonstrated the weapon successfully taking down a drone target at a distance of 90 metres during recent field trials.

The T-12 is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing military arsenals. It shares a significant number of components with other firearms produced by SSS Defence. This deliberate design choice streamlines supply chains and maintenance procedures, allowing military or law enforcement units already equipped with the company’s assault rifles or sniper systems to adopt the shotgun with minimal additional training or new inventories of spare parts.

The use of shotguns against small, low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles became widespread with the large-scale deployment of commercial FPV drones in the Russo-Ukrainian war. Commonly used models include the Vepr-12 and Remington Model 870-type shotguns. Shotguns are more effective against drones than standard rifles due to their spread of multiple projectiles. Even minor damage to a quadcopter’s propeller can destabilise it, rendering it inoperable. Ukraine has also used Turkish Hatsan Escort BTS-12 semi-automatic bullpup shotguns.

Italian company Benelli has adapted its M4 shotgun for counter-drone roles, known as the M4 A.I. Drone Guardian. The M4 can neutralise drones at ranges from 0 to 50 metres, with an extended reach of up to 100 metres. Alongside shotguns, grenade launchers are also being adapted to counter drone threats. According to a report by 1 RU, Russia has begun testing specialised net-launcher rounds for standard GP-25, GP-30, and GP-34 underbarrel grenade launchers. These rounds match the dimensions of standard VOG-25/VOG-25P ammunition and are muzzle-loaded.

When fired, at a distance of 30–40 metres, a 4×4 metre net deploys, entangling the drone’s propellers. The maximum effective range is about 55 metres. After use, soldiers can quickly replace the spent round or revert to standard ammunition without additional weapon preparation. The US Army’s Precision Grenadier System programme, aimed at developing a 30 mm grenade launcher, is also expected to contribute to countering low-level drone threats.

The Indian Army’s procurement of shotguns highlights the evolving approach of infantry in countering drones. Beyond the Army, paramilitary forces could also consider the T-12, given its emerging role as an effective counter-drone shotgun.

Arjun Dev Singh

Arjun Dev Singh has a deep interest in defence, security, and strategic affairs. With a strong analytical lens and a passion for military and geopolitical developments, Arjun strives to bring clarity and context to complex national and international issues.