A new remotely operated drone-defense capability will be integrated into Italy’s Michelangelo Dome, adding a close-in layer to defend potential “dead zones” in the emerging missile shield.
Leonardo’s Hystrix 76 ADS uses a combat-proven 76/62mm naval gun, adapted from maritime use for land-based operations, to counter a wide range of aerial threats.
It can fire multiple air-defense rounds, including the HE‑PF‑IM6‑OES and HE‑MOMA1 with selectable detonation settings, as well as Vulcano 76 rounds with programmable fuses and DART guided munitions.
The system delivers 360-degree coverage with a high elevation range, capable of engaging everything from low-flying drones to steep-diving aircraft.
The Hystrix 76 ADS can be deployed as a fixed installation, a relocatable asset, or mounted on trucks for flexible air defense operations.
Drone-Killer Rounds in Action
Recent trials demonstrated that Leonardo’s HE-MOMA1 and DART munitions can engage a variety of aerial threats, including small, maneuvering drones, at realistic operational ranges.
Performance was reinforced by the C-band Tactical Multi Mission Radar, which tracked multiple targets simultaneously.
Looking ahead, the company is developing the Hystrix 76 ADS Light, a more compact variant designed to improve mobility while retaining the core capabilities of the full‑size system.
Weighing less than 4,000 kilograms (8,800 pounds), the lighter version is intended for 8×8 wheeled or tracked platforms, supporting faster, more flexible deployments.
