Helicopter-Based Counter-Drone Tactics in ADEX MalletStrike125
The Finnish Armed Forces have recently showcased their helicopter-based counter-drone strategies during the ADEX MalletStrike125 military exercise. Armed with M134 miniguns, an NH90 helicopter demonstrated its capability by successfully targeting drone objectives. Troops onboard the helicopter also engaged these targets using small arms, marking a significant advancement in anti-drone operations.
This exercise reflects a growing trend in military tactics, influenced by the ongoing situation in Ukraine, where the need to neutralize drones from helicopters has become increasingly vital. As Russia reinforces its military presence along its extensive 1,340-kilometer border with NATO, these adaptive tactics are crucial for maintaining air security.
Drawing Lessons from Ukraine
Finnish Army officials emphasized the importance of learning from the Ukrainian conflict. “The lessons from the war in Ukraine are being applied. In the ADEX #MalletStrike125 exercise, we are practicing drone combat using various means together,” stated an army spokesperson on X. The integration of multiple combat techniques highlights a strategic approach to contemporary warfare.
Additionally, the Utti Jaeger Regiment is actively participating in the exercise, showcasing its own drone combat capabilities. This collaborative effort underscores the necessity of evolving tactics to keep pace with the rapidly changing battlefield dynamics.
Combatting UAVs with Helicopters
Reports from early 2024 revealed that Ukrainian forces were effectively using the onboard weaponry of their Mi-8 helicopters to intercept Moscow’s Shahed attack drones. This technique illustrates the tactical advantages of employing helicopters, which are often more cost-effective than traditional ground-based air defense systems.
Helicopters provide a unique solution in countering drones, particularly attritable UAVs, as they can be rapidly deployed and do not necessitate extensive infrastructure like runways. Their versatility allows for the integration of armaments such as machine guns, making them effective against low-flying, slower-moving drone threats.
Comparative Effectiveness of Military Aircraft
In a notable contrast, expensive fighter jets are primarily designed to engage high-speed aerial threats and come equipped with costly munitions. Helicopters, on the other hand, present a more economical option for tackling low-cost UAVs, thus extending the operational reach of military forces without straining budgets.
The operational flexibility of helicopters enhances their role in modern warfare, proving essential in scenarios where fast deployment and adaptability are crucial for effective defense.
Global Adoption of Helicopter Anti-Drone Strategies
The trend of utilizing helicopter-based counter-drone tactics is not isolated to Finland. The U.S. Army’s AH-64 Apache successfully struck a UAV target during an exercise in Saudi Arabia in October 2024, showcasing the efficacy of this approach in diverse operational contexts.
Similarly, in March 2024, the French Navy deployed an unnamed helicopter to intercept Houthi drones in the Red Sea. These examples demonstrate the global recognition of helicopter capabilities in enhancing air defense measures against increasingly sophisticated drone technologies.
