SMARTSHOOTER won the Innovation Award in the Army Technology Excellence Awards 2025 for its significant advancements in enhancing small arms accuracy and operational effectiveness through the integration of artificial intelligence and modular technology.

The Army Technology Excellence Awards honor the most significant achievements and innovations in the defense industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies leading positive change and shaping the industry’s future.

SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH fire control technology has been recognized in the Precision Fire Control category reflecting the company’s approach to integrating artificial intelligence (AI), computer vision, and advanced algorithms into compact, scalable fire control systems that address evolving operational challenges for ground forces.

AI-enabled precision enhances small arms accuracy

Hitting moving or distant targets has traditionally relied on a soldier’s skill and experience. SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH system changes that equation by using real-time image processing and AI-driven tracking. For instance, when troops face fast-moving evasive threats such as small drones (sUAS), SMASH can automatically lock onto the target, calculate ballistic trajectories, and release the shot only when a hit is assured. This improves hit accuracy during intense battle situations and reduces collateral damage.

The technology has proven valuable against aerial threats that are difficult to engage with conventional optics or unaided marksmanship. Field reports from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and U.S. military units show that SMASH-equipped rifles have been effective in neutralizing drones that might otherwise evade traditional countermeasures. By transforming standard infantry weapons into precision platforms, SMARTSHOOTER has addressed a critical gap in dismounted force protection.

Modular and scalable solutions for different missions

The SMASH product family is designed to fit a variety of operational needs, designed for seamless integration with existing force structures. The SMASH 2000L and 3000 models mount directly onto standard rifles without adding much weight or bulk, making them practical for soldiers on patrol. For situations where longer range or better situational awareness is needed, the SMASH X4 adds a four-times magnifying optic and a laser rangefinder to its AI targeting features.

SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH family of fire control systems also includes the SMASH Hopper, a remote weapon station that can be mounted on vehicles, unmanned platforms, or static defensive positions. It connects with external sensors or C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers & Intelligence) systems and can be operated via wired or wireless links. This flexibility means units can use SMASH technology in everything from urban patrols to border security while staying connected with larger command networks.

Operational validation and international adoption

SMARTSHOOTER’s technology is deployed across multiple armed forces and its performance demonstrated in live operational environments. The IDF has deployed SMASH systems across all infantry brigades to counter drone and ground threats along sensitive borders and in battle. Similarly, U.S. Army and Marine Corps units have added SMASH to their counter-drone arsenals following rigorous evaluation by organizations such as the Joint Counter-sUAS Office (JCO) and Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD).

These deployments are not limited to controlled trials; they reflect ongoing use in active conflict zones where reliability is crucial. Users have reported higher engagement success rates against both aerial and ground targets, even when facing complex threats like drone swarms or armed quadcopters. The awarding of multi-million-dollar contracts by defense agencies further demonstrates confidence in the system’s capabilities.

Beyond Israel and the United States, SMARTSHOOTER’s solutions have been adopted by NATO partners in Europe, including Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands, as well as by security forces in Asia-Pacific. This broad uptake shows that militaries worldwide see value in this approach to modern battlefield challenges.

Human-in-the-Loop targeting supports ethical use of AI

A distinguishing aspect that sets SMARTSHOOTER apart is its focus on keeping humans in control of engagement decisions. While automation helps with tracking and aiming, operators always make the final call. The technology provides visual cues, such as target locks or shot timing indicators, but never fires autonomously.

This approach aligns with evolving international norms regarding responsible use of AI in defense applications. It ensures that accountability remains with trained personnel rather than algorithms alone, a consideration increasingly scrutinized by policymakers and military leaders alike. By embedding these safeguards into its products from inception, SMARTSHOOTER has addressed both operational needs and ethical concerns associated with next-generation fire control systems.

“We are honored to receive this recognition. This achievement reflects the proven value of our SMASH fire control systems and their ability to transform conventional small arms into precision tools against modern threats, including drones. Deployed by leading military forces worldwide, SMASH continues to enhance operational effectiveness at the squad level, and we remain committed to driving innovation that meets the evolving needs of today’s battlefield.”

– Michal Mor, CEO of SMARTSHOOTER

Company Profile

SMARTSHOOTER is a world-class designer, developer, and manufacturer of innovative fire control systems that significantly increase hit accuracy. With a rich record in designing unique solutions for the warfighter, SMARTSHOOTER technology enhances mission effectiveness through the ability to accurately engage and eliminate ground, aerial, static, or moving targets, including drones, during both day and night operations.

Designed to help military and law enforcement professionals swiftly and accurately neutralize their targets, the company’s combat-proven SMASH Family of Fire Control Systems increases assault rifle lethality while keeping friendly forces safe and reducing collateral damage. The company’s experienced engineers combine electro-optics, computer vision technologies, real-time embedded software, ergonomics, and system engineering to provide cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions for modern conflicts.

Fielded and operational by forces in the US, UK, Israel, NATO countries, and others, SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH family of solutions provides end-users with a precise hit capability across multiple mission areas, creating a significant advantage for the infantry soldier and ultimately revolutionizing the world of small arms and optics.

SMARTSHOOTER’s headquarters are based in Yagur, Israel. The company has subsidiary companies in Europe, the US, and Australia.

Contact Details

E-mail: info@smart-shooter.com

Links

Website: www.SMART-SHOOTER.com

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Sept. 16, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Augustana University.

Augustana University’s third annual Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium will culminate with Dr. Joy Buolamwini as the featured speaker.

Buolamwini, bestselling author, MIT researcher and founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, will give a keynote presentation to the Augustana community, alumni and friends at 4 p.m. Oct. 25 in the Elmen Center, with a book signing to follow.

Generously supported by Rosemarie and Dean Buntrock and in partnership with Augustana’s Center for Western Studies, the Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium was established in 2023. The colloquium is designed to promote civil discourse and deep reflection with the goal of enhancing students’ skills to think critically and communicate persuasively as citizens of a pluralistic society.

“In an era of unprecedented technological advancement, Dr. Buolamwini’s insights urge us to consider not only the capabilities of artificial intelligence but its ethical implications. Her participation in this year’s colloquium invites meaningful dialogue around integrity, responsibility and the human experience,” Augustana President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin said.

In addition to being a researcher, model and artist, Buolamwini is the author of the U.S. bestseller “Unmasking AI: My Mission To Protect What Is Human in a World of Machines.”

Buolamwini’s research on facial recognition technologies transformed the field of AI auditing. She advises world leaders on preventing AI harm and lends her expertise to congressional hearings and government agencies seeking to enact equitable and accountable AI policy.

Buolamwini’s TEDx Talk on algorithmic bias has almost 1.9 million views, and her TED AI Talk on protecting human rights in an age of AI transforms the boundaries of TED Talks.

As the “Poet of Code,” she also creates art to illuminate the impact of AI on society, with her work featured in publications such as Time, The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Rolling Stone and The Atlantic. Her work as a spokesmodel also has been featured in Vogue, Allure, Harper’s Bazaar and People. She is the protagonist of the Emmy-nominated documentary “Coded Bias.”

Buolamwini is the recipient of notable awards, including the Rhodes Scholarship, Fulbright Fellowship, Morals & Machines Prize, as well as the Technological Innovation Award from the King Center. She was selected as a 2022 Young Global Leader, one of the world’s most promising leaders younger than 40 as determined by The World Economic Forum, and Fortune named her the “conscience of the AI revolution.”

“Many associate AI with advancement and intrigue. Dr. Buolamwini invites cognitive dissonance by demonstrating the potentials for harm caused by the unexamined use of AI,” said Dr. Shannon Proksch, assistant professor of psychology and neuroscience at Augustana.

“Dr. Buolamwini’s visit will invite the Augustana community to engage in critical thinking and deep reflection around how algorithmic technology intersects with our lives and society as a whole. Her work embodies the goals of the Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium by challenging us to acknowledge the human impact of AI and remain vigilant about the role that we play in ensuring that these technologies do more to benefit and strengthen our communities than to harm them.”

“AI is the most powerful and disruptive technology of our time, so we’re very excited to bring Dr. Buolamwini to Sioux Falls. She’s an engaging and dynamic speaker whose research and life experience have given her deep insight into how we can ensure that AI is used to promote the flourishing of all,” said Dr. Stephen Minister, Stanley L. Olsen Chair of Moral Values and professor of philosophy at Augustana.

Tickets for the 2025 Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium are free and available to the public at augie.edu/CICCTickets.

About the Critical Inquiry & Citizenship Colloquium

In partnership with the Center for Western Studies and supported by Rosemarie and Dean Buntrock, this annual one- or two-day colloquium is intended to feature faculty scholars and students, as well as industry, research and policy experts who inspire and facilitate critical thinking, persuasive reasoning and thoughtful discussion around timely and engaging topics in areas ranging from religion, science and politics to history, technology and business. The colloquium kicks off or culminates in a keynote given by thought leaders of national or global prominence.

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