Ukrainian Predator Anti-Drone Turret Tested Aboard NATO Frigate

The Ukrainian company UGV Robotics conducted tests of the deck-mounted version of the Predator turret aboard a frigate belonging to a NATO member state.

The company reported this to Militarnyi.

UGV Robotics explained that the idea of installing remotely controlled turrets on ship decks within NATO arose after Ukrainian Magura naval drones sank a frigate (simulated) during joint exercises.

At that point, the Alliance realized the need to learn how to counter such a threat as quickly as possible.

The main requirement at the start of testing was to integrate the turret onto the ship, ensuring it was securely mounted, without making any changes to the ship’s structure.

Using photographs and measurements, a team of engineers developed a special platform that was integrated into the ship’s standard machine gun mount. The turret itself was equipped with an FN MAG machine gun.

In addition, all safety requirements were met, including the implementation of mechanical safety limits and the installation of a control station inside the ship.

Prior to the tests, the team installed and configured the turret; the following day, they received information about the targets and familiarized themselves with their tactical and technical characteristics.

During the tests, the Predator successfully engaged an air target and a simulated surface drone.

Predator

The Predator universal lightweight combat module was first unveiled in November 2024.

The module features a rotating platform with a 360-degree rotation angle in the horizontal plane. Vertical elevation angles range from -12 to +80 degrees, with the ability to increase the depression angle to -20 degrees.

Predator can be used both in a stationary configuration and on mobile platforms. The module is compatible with 7.62 mm machine guns of both Soviet and NATO standards. One of its key features is a stabilization system that ensures accurate fire even while on the move.

Another advantage is the integrated artificial intelligence system, capable of automatically recognizing and tracking targets.

In particular, the system can automatically detect unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enabling the module to be effectively used to counter drones, including FPV drones, at short ranges.

In July 2025, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense codified and approved the Predator stabilized combat module for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.