Clearing the Skies of Drones: Kalashnikov's MP-155 Shotgun to Be Manufactured in India, Technology and Mechanism Explained
Russia's renowned arms manufacturer Kalashnikov Concern, in partnership with an Indian firm, will manufacture the MP-155 shotgun, which is proving to be an infallible weapon against drones in modern warfare.
Russia's world-renowned weapon manufacturer, Kalashnikov Concern, has entered into a licensing agreement with a local Indian company for the production of the MP-155 shotgun. This is the same company that created the world's most popular rifle, the AK-47. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Alan Lushnikov, has confirmed this agreement, which will add a new chapter to India-Russia defense cooperation.
The MP-155 is fundamentally a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun designed for hunting. However, in recent wars, it has proven extremely effective against low-altitude drones. This weapon was developed at Russia's Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, and its production began in 2012.
History and Development of the MP-155
This shotgun was developed based on its predecessor model, the MP-153. Compared to the MP-153, special attention has been paid to reducing weight and improving balance in this new model. The history of the Izhevsk plant dates back to 1807, when it was founded by the Russian Emperor Alexander I. For decades, this plant has been supplying state-of-the-art weapons to the Russian military.
Kalashnikov Concern currently produces 95% of Russia's small arms and exports to more than 27 countries. The MP-155 is a modern version of this same tradition. In 2017, the company introduced a new version of this shotgun, which included features for left-handed shooters as well.
Gas-Operated Mechanism: How does it work?
The MP-155 is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun. In this technology, when a cartridge is fired, a small portion of the hot gas generated is diverted through a port in the barrel toward a gas piston. The pressure of this gas pushes the piston backward, which ejects the empty shell and loads a new cartridge from the magazine.
The specialty of this shotgun is that its gas piston is equipped with a mechanism to adjust the impulse of the automation engine. This allows the shooter to regulate gas pressure according to different types of cartridges. Due to this feature, the balance of the weapon is maintained, and the recoil experienced while firing is felt less.
| Detail | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 12/76 and 12/89 |
| Operating mechanism | Gas-operated semi-automatic |
| Maximum pressure capacity | 1050 Bar |
| Effective range (against drones) | 50 to 100 meters |
| Production start | Year 2012 |
Features of the Anti-Drone Version
Several important modifications have been made to the MP-155 for anti-drone operations. This tactical version is equipped with a Picatinny rail, on which modern equipment such as a red-dot sight or night vision device can be attached. With the help of these tools, soldiers can accurately target fast-flying drones.
This shotgun can fire 12/76 and 12/89 caliber cartridges. In an anti-drone role, an extended magazine is used so that soldiers can fire more rounds. By using cartridges containing special types of shot, it is capable of downing small and fast drones at a distance of 50 to 100 meters.
- Firing and gas releaseWhen the trigger is pulled, the cartridge fires and gas is generated.
- Piston movementGas travels from the barrel port towards the piston and pushes it back.
- EjectionThe backward motion of the piston ejects the empty cartridge case.
- ReloadingThe piston returns due to spring pressure and loads a new cartridge into the chamber.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.15 to 3.8 kilograms |
| Caliber | 12/76 and 12/89 |
| Pressure capacity | 1050 Bar |
| Production year | 2012 |
Technical Specifications and Data
The weight of the MP-155 is between 3.15 and 3.8 kilograms. This reduction in weight is made possible by the use of aluminum alloy, from which its receiver body is made. This metal is lightweight while being strong, which helps soldiers hold the weapon for long periods.
This shotgun is designed to withstand pressures of up to 1050 Bar. This means it can safely fire powerful cartridges containing both steel and lead shot. Its design is such that it can operate reliably even in extremely harsh geographical conditions.
Why a shotgun against drones?
In modern warfare, the threat of FPV and kamikaze drones is increasing. Traditional rifles fire one bullet at a time, which creates difficulty in targeting small and extremely fast drones. In comparison, a shotgun spreads many small pellets into the air at once, which covers a large area. These pellets damage the drone's propellers or electronics, bringing it down immediately.
During the Ukraine conflict, soldiers realized that when a drone gets very close, a shotgun is the most effective defensive tool. Understanding this very need, the Kalashnikov company has adapted the MP-155 for an anti-drone role. This weapon is inexpensive, and soldiers do not need extensive training to use it.
Significance for India
India is already manufacturing AK-203 assault rifles through Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited in Amethi. The new contract for the MP-155 will deepen this collaboration. As cases of weapons and drugs smuggling via drones are increasing along Indian borders, this shotgun could prove to be an important tool for security forces.
This project is in line with India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' policy. Initially, production will be carried out with Russian technical assistance, and the share of local content will be gradually increased. Although the name of the Indian partner and the exact production figure have not yet been announced, this step will strengthen India's internal and border security.
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