U.S. Army fields Merops low-cost interceptor drone as counter-UAS program

The post describes Merops, a small, low-cost interceptor drone system (Surveyor-based) used to shoot down Shahed-136-class one-way attack drones via hit-to-kill or proximity warhead, with autonomous or remote-controlled operation. Its combat use in Ukraine and subsequent rapid U.S. Army procurement (including large-volume buys) reflects a new, drone-on-drone air defense approach aimed at improving interceptor economics versus traditional SAMs.