The French Army has introduced the PROTEUS Standard 1, a modernized 20mm automatic gun system designed to counter drones and precision-guided munitions. This development highlights France’s efforts to adapt legacy weapons for emerging battlefield threats.
The PROTEUS Standard 1 is based on the AA53 cannon, a World War II-era weapon originally built for engaging light vehicles and short-range aerial threats. By modernizing its design, the French Army aims to give the system new relevance in today’s operational environment.
The gun is chambered for 20×139 caliber rounds and delivers a high firing rate of 720 rounds per minute, providing sustained firepower for close-range defense. Despite its age, the AA53 design has remained in service worldwide, proving its enduring utility even alongside newer systems.
By transforming this historic cannon into a modern anti-drone platform, France is extending its service life and reinforcing its layered defense approach against rapidly evolving airborne threats.
