Thailand equips troops with IWI's ARBEL anti-drone rifle system

Israel Weapon Industries confirmed delivery of its ARBEL Anti-Drone System to the Thai Ministry of Defense, where it has been integrated into the army's current rifles and is now in use. The ARBEL ADS combines a standard trigger-pull for the first shot with an automated cadence for subsequent rounds, helping shooters engage small, agile tactical drones without needing separate equipment or extensive retraining. Thailand opted for the retrofit configuration, swapping the lower receiver of its existing weapons, and is already in talks about acquiring additional units.

IWI highlighted rising demand for the technology throughout Southeast Asia, with more deployments expected soon. The system is compatible with a wide range of optics and uses standard 5.56 mm ammunition, simplifying logistics for armed forces. SK Group executives Ronen Hamudot and Doron Korol emphasized the growing threat posed by tactical drones and the tactical advantage the ARBEL ADS provides.