Responding to the rapidly growing threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS) on the modern battlefield, John Cockerill Defense has introduced a comprehensive portfolio of counter-drone solutions designed to enhance the self-protection of armoured vehicles. The new capabilities are being showcased during Eurosatory 2026, highlighting the company’s integrated approach to detecting, tracking and neutralising aerial threats.

One of the key developments is the Operational Adaptation Kit for Counter-UAV (KAO LAD), presented by the French Ministry of the Armed Forces on a T1 Hornet remote weapon station mounted on a 4×4 Serval armoured vehicle. The system is the result of close cooperation between John Cockerill Defense, the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) and the Army Technical Section (STAT).

The KAO LAD integrates a radar system with a dedicated fire-control solution, enabling the detection and engagement of hostile drones. The programme demonstrates the adaptability of remotely operated weapon stations for counter-UAS missions and forms part of France’s broader efforts to strengthen force protection against emerging aerial threats.

At its own exhibition stand, John Cockerill Defense is displaying the operational Hornet Air Guard, an enhanced version of the Hornet turret equipped with improved drone detection capabilities and radio-frequency (RF) neutralisation technology developed in partnership with MC2. The system combines sensors, electronic warfare capabilities and automated target management to counter a broad range of unmanned aerial threats.

The Hornet Air Guard is also featured on the exhibition stands of MBDA, Thales and AM General, underlining the growing industrial cooperation in the development of integrated counter-drone capabilities.

Recognising that the drone threat extends beyond troop transport vehicles, the company is also unveiling the Hornet S Air Guard concept for the first time. Designed for integration with the Hornet S and T3 turret families—including those deployed on the French Army’s Jaguar reconnaissance vehicle—the new configuration provides 360-degree drone detection capability for medium- and large-calibre weapon systems.

The company’s counter-UAS portfolio incorporates several proprietary technologies, including artificial intelligence-based automatic drone detection and tracking, as well as an adapted version of the CLWS turret armed with a 25 mm cannon, specifically configured for specialised counter-drone operations.

Through this expanding range of modular and scalable solutions, John Cockerill Defense aims to provide armed forces with integrated counter-UAS capabilities that can be rapidly installed on existing armoured platforms, strengthening survivability against one of the fastest-evolving threats on today’s battlefield.