IWI turns rifles into devices for destroying drones

«Israel Weapon Industries» (IWI) presented its new product — a counter-drone system called Arbel, which has become a real breakthrough in the military field. The system is based on the AR-15 platform and allows, writes www.ynetnews.com on September 16, 2025, soldiers to use their existing rifles and optics, making it especially convenient.

Simplicity and Efficiency of Arbel

Formally, Arbel looks quite simple. An IWI instructor demonstrated how the system is compatible with regular weapon use. “I can control the system and the weapon simultaneously,” he noted.

The main feature of Arbel is the presence of an electronic trigger and an internal computer, which are activated after the first shot. This allows shooting only when the shooter is stable in aiming.

Advantages of the New Approach

“Now I will try to demonstrate the Arbel mode. Keep in mind, I press the trigger and hold it… my next shot will only be when I aim purposefully again,” the instructor explained.

This stabilization turns the almost impossible task of hitting a moving drone at a distance of 250 meters into an achievable one for a trained shooter.

Test results show that the probability of hitting confidently increases from 5% to more than 70%.

Relevance of the System in Modern Conflicts

Semyon, head of the European division of SK Group, noted that the threat of drones has significantly increased in recent years.

“Small tactical drones are a simple and cheap solution from the enemy,” he emphasized.

These devices are capable of dropping grenades, monitoring troop movements, and sowing fear. Arbel, therefore, represents a vital and low-cost response for European armies — from Ukraine to Poland, not to mention countries facing threats from terrorist groups.

Immediate Benefits for the Army

As Semyon pointed out, armies do not need to change optics or the method of firing.

“All they need to do is aim, press the trigger, hold it, and focus on aiming accuracy,” he added.

Innovation as a Response to the Challenges of the Time

Created out of necessity, Israel’s defense industry turns necessity into innovation. Arbel may become the next product that the world cannot ignore.