Russia plans to roll out a special anti-drone 'Matryoshka doll' bullet that can be used in any standard Kalashnikov AK-47 rifle

Russian 5.45mm bullet can split into multiple pieces to target drones

by · TechRadar

News By Efosa Udinmwen Published 23 September 2026 3 min read

(Image credit: SCMP)

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  • Russia is testing ammunition that splits apart to confront small drones
  • Russian testing found separated elements reaching critical components inside drones
  • The ammunition fits standard rifles instead of requiring specialized counter-drone weapons

The Russian military is developing a multi-bullet cartridge designed to give standard Kalashnikov rifles a new way to engage small drones during combat.

The ammunition separates into several elements during flight, creating multiple projectiles from a single round fired through a compatible rifle.

Military expert Yury Knutov said the design is intended for troops who may encounter drones without having access to specialized firearms.

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A multi-part cartridge for standard rifles

The reported cartridge uses the 5.45mm format and can be loaded into a standard AK-12 magazine without requiring a different rifle platform.

Its unusual construction keeps several elements together before firing, after which they separate while travelling toward the aerial target.

The concept has drawn comparisons with a Matryoshka doll because multiple components are contained within one projectile before separating in flight.

Pervy Tekhnichesky reported in April that Kalashnikov Concern had developed and tested the ammunition as a potential option for engaging small drones.

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