According to a statement released by the Swedish Ministry of Defense on July 1, 2025, the Swedish Army, in collaboration with the Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and national defense industry partners, has successfully developed and deployed mobile counter-drone systems in less than six months. Launched under the urgent program known as “Operation Gute,” this initiative is a swift and innovative response to the evolving threat landscape brought on by the rapid proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), now seen as one of the most serious threats to ground forces. The newly introduced concept significantly boosts the army’s response capabilities against drone threats.
The Swedish counter-drone concept stands out with its emphasis on speed, automation, and user-friendly design. It integrates various existing and proven technologies, combining both active and passive sensors within a highly automated command-and-control infrastructure. This setup allows for the transition from detection to neutralization within seconds—providing a crucial advantage in high-threat conflict environments.
During live-fire tests, two different mobile platforms were deployed. The first was a 4×4 armored vehicle equipped with Saab’s Trackfire ARES remote weapon system, armed with a 30mm automatic cannon. This platform features advanced sensors such as thermal imaging, CCD TV, and a laser rangefinder. With its ability to detect and engage targets quickly and accurately, the Trackfire ARES is particularly effective against small, low-flying, and agile UAVs.
The second platform was a 6×6 tactical vehicle fitted with the Tridon Mk2 turret, developed by BAE Systems. It is armed with the Bofors 40 Mk4 cannon and programmable 3P ammunition, providing a longer range and wider engagement envelope against larger or more maneuverable UAVs. Thanks to its electro-optical and radar sensors and a digital fire control system, the Tridon Mk2 delivers precise and automated firing even under complex battlefield conditions.
Both systems underwent extensive field testing under Operation Gute, simulating real-time drone threats. The integration of sensor inputs with automated fire control enabled rapid and effective engagement, proving the operational success of the platforms. These systems not only enhance Sweden’s defensive capabilities but also serve as scalable, conscription-ready solutions that could serve as models across Europe.
The development of these mobile systems also offers strategic and economic benefits. While traditional air defense systems are effective against high-value aerial threats like aircraft or cruise missiles, their costly interceptors are not economically viable for neutralizing low-cost threats such as FPV drones or commercial quadcopters. By relying on cannon-based systems like the Trackfire ARES and Tridon Mk2, the Swedish Army provides a cost-effective response to drone swarms without depleting limited missile stocks. Programmable munitions and high-caliber cannons deliver wide-area coverage and strong kinetic effect, while the platforms’ mobility ensures real-time protection of maneuvering units and critical assets.
This initiative marks a clear shift in Sweden’s defense strategy toward agile, high-tech, and rapidly deployable systems. By leveraging domestic industrial capabilities and focusing on modularity and automation, Sweden aims to become a leader in the field of counter-drone warfare in Europe. The approach lays the foundation for a responsive, precise, and economically sustainable defense infrastructure against both current and emerging aerial threats.
