Marines Seek Specialized Anti-Drone Ammunition for Rifles

The U.S. Marine Corps is set to procure a specialized anti-drone ammunition variant known as the L Variant from Drone Round by the end of 2026. This new ammunition is designed to break into multiple segments upon impact, enhancing its effectiveness against fast-moving and small aerial targets such as first-person view (FPV) kamikaze drones. The proliferation of these drone threats has made them a significant concern for military operations globally, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine.

Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) recently issued a sole-source contract notice to Drone Round, emphasizing the immediate operational need for this ammunition to counter small uncrewed aerial systems (c-sUAS). The L Variant cartridge is compatible with existing Marine Corps firearms such as M4 carbines and M27 rifles without requiring any modifications or specialized training. This ensures that all Marines can quickly adapt their standard-issue weapons to defend against emerging drone threats.

Drone Round has been developing anti-drone ammunition since at least 2025, offering two variants of the L and K rounds for use in 5.56x45mm firearms. The L Variant is effective up to a range of approximately 328 feet (100 meters), while the K Variant operates within a shorter range of about 164 feet (50 meters). Both versions are designed to be used with full-auto capabilities and can work effectively even when suppressors are attached. The company is also working on developing similar ammunition for other calibers, including 7.62x51mm and 6.8x51mm rounds, which could cater to a broader range of military firearms.