SSS Defence’s T-12 semi-automatic shotgun has now been inducted into the Indian Army’s Northern Command as a frontline counter-drone weapon, specifically designed to neutralise FPV drones and low-flying UAVs at ranges up to 90 metres.

This marks a significant step in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat drive, strengthening last-mile defence capabilities with indigenous solutions.

The Bangalore-based manufacturer has supplied its T-12 shotguns to operational units tasked with defending border areas against the growing threat of hostile drones. The weapon is chambered in 12-gauge, is semi-automatic and gas-operated, and accepts five- or ten-round magazines. It has been tested extensively in field evaluations, where it successfully engaged drone targets at distances of up to 90 metres, a range critical for frontline trench and patrol defence.

The T-12 is built to be both lightweight and durable. It weighs 3.8 kilograms and features a 20-inch nitride barrel that enhances corrosion resistance. Its upper and lower receivers are made from high-strength 7075-T6 aluminium, ensuring structural integrity while keeping the platform portable.

The shotgun is equipped with a full-length Picatinny rail, allowing soldiers to mount mission-specific optics, reflex sights, and thermal imaging devices to track fast-moving aerial targets in contested environments.

The modularity of the T-12 makes it adaptable to diverse combat scenarios. Ambidextrous controls and a multi-position buttstock with cheek rest provide ergonomic flexibility. The design also emphasises parts commonality with other SSS Defence firearms, such as assault rifles and sniper systems, simplifying logistics and reducing training overhead for the Army.

Strategically, the induction of the T-12 addresses a crucial gap in small-unit defence against FPV drones. Lessons from conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia revealed that traditional assault rifles are often ineffective against small, fast, erratically manoeuvring drones.

Shotguns, by firing a spread of pellets, increase the probability of striking a drone’s propellers or flight controller with a single shot. Even partial damage can destabilise quadcopters enough to bring them down, making the shotgun a practical, low-cost, and training-accessible solution for frontline soldiers.

The T-12 was showcased at the Northtech Symposium 2026 in Prayagraj, where its indigenous design and operational versatility drew attention. Its dual-purpose role—effective in conventional tactical operations such as breaching and perimeter security, as well as in modern CUAS missions—positions it as a valuable addition to India’s arsenal. Future variants, including suppressed models for covert missions, are already under development.

The induction of the T-12 complements India’s broader counter-drone ecosystem. Alongside laser weapons from Olee Space, loitering munitions from DRDO and Adani Defence, and other indigenous platforms like the TYTO sniper rifle, the T-12 represents the last-mile soldier-level defence layer. Together, these systems form a tiered, indigenous counter-drone stack that does not rely on a single technology or supplier.

By delivering the T-12, SSS Defence has reinforced its role as a key private-sector player in India’s defence modernisation agenda. The weapon underscores the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, reducing reliance on imports and ensuring that frontline troops are equipped with reliable, homegrown solutions tailored to evolving battlefield requirements.

Agencies