Defense establishment developing new solutions against Hezbollah's fiber-optic FPV drones

Hezbollah's use of fiber-optic first-person view (FPV) drones has prompted Israel's defense establishment to accelerate the development of new interception and detection solutions. These drones, unlike those relying on wireless signals, use a direct fiber optic cable for data and commands. This design grants them immunity to standard electronic anti-drone systems, allows for delay-free, high-definition video transmission, and enables precise strikes even inside buildings.

Security and military sources indicate a strategic shift from frequency-based detection to optical and acoustic systems. These new means have recently been deployed in the field. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are also enhancing visual signature management and masking measures, employing dynamic smoke screens during troop and vehicle movements to reduce their visibility.

Intelligence efforts have intensified to locate and neutralize drone operators, with plans to allocate additional air and ground firepower to shorten the attack cycle. The IDF has also begun deploying floating nets designed to disrupt drone warheads and create distance from armored vehicles. Brig.-Gen. Rami Abudraham is leading efforts to procure and install these nets on various military assets and infrastructure.

Technological innovation is a key focus for the Defense Ministry. High-power microwave (HPM) weapons are being developed to disable drones by burning their internal circuits, irrespective of their transmission frequency. Laser interception systems are also in development, aiming to destroy drones or blind their optics at minimal cost.

A significant procurement effort, funded by a special budget, includes AI-based smart trigger systems to assist soldiers in shooting down drones with small arms. Additionally, pump-action shotguns are being purchased, as their ammunition spread is considered more effective against fast-moving drones.