A partnership between two US companies is enabling remote weapon stations (RWS) to detect and engage drones autonomously through a software upgrade.
The capability combines Colorado-based AimLock’s Core Targeting Module software with FN America’s Defnder medium RWS, forming a new system dubbed “Dune.”
The targeting module is designed to optimize Dune for engaging small attack drones, using artificial intelligence to enhance fire-control performance in counter-drone operations.
It can be armed with a .50 caliber machine gun, a proven countermeasure against Iranian Shaheds and Russian-made Geran drones widely used in the Ukraine war.
Dune can also work with a range of munitions, including 30x133mm cannon rounds, 12.7x99mm heavy bullets, and programmable grenade launcher rounds.
Its multi-caliber compatibility gives operators flexibility to configure the system based on available supply, reducing the need for entirely new weapon systems.
Deployable, Last-Line Solution
The two companies unveiled Dune at Special Operations Forces Week 2026 in Tampa, with the RWS mounted on a 6×6 utility terrain vehicle.
A light platform was chosen to demonstrate it as a deployable capability for a wide range of military vehicles, reducing reliance on specialized heavy platforms.
“If [electronic warfare systems don’t] work, this is the last line of defense,” said Bryan Bockmon, AimLock CEO, as quoted by Defence Blog.
