ParaZero DefendAir: the man-portable anti-drone net launcher

The growing popularity of small drones, including fiber-optic guided ones, introduces a critical vulnerability for security forces and military units. Recent conflicts have shown how these systems can easily bypass traditional defenses, posing an immediate threat to ground forces, VIPs and critical infrastructure such as power plants, dams and government buildings. Operational units therefore need a lightweight, fast-response tool to intercept and neutralize air threats at short range.

Enter ParaZero Technologies Ltd., an Israeli aerospace company founded in 2014 and specializing in advanced solutions for drones and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). ParaZero was founded with the aim of improving the operational safety of drones, a crucial issue for the development of the industry. Its main product, SafeAir, is an autonomous parachute system that is activated in the event of an in-flight failure. In more recent years, ParaZero has also expanded its business to the defense and security sector, developing DefendAir, an anti-drone system that intercepts hostile UAVs without the use of explosives, using automotive components that comply with protocols for urban deployment.

The DefendAir anti-drone system

The DefendAir is a revolutionary man-portable system that allows small UAVs to be shot down by launching a 25-square meter weighted net that entangles the UAV's rotors or control surfaces, immediately stopping its flight and causing it to crash. The system does not use explosive charges to operate; instead, it utilizes nitrogen gas, similarly to automotive airbags.

Until now the DefendAir had been offered in a "carbine" version with pistol grip, Picatinny rail for red dot optics, fixed stock, 75 centimeters long and weighing 1.7 kilograms, but at Enforce TAC 2026 an even more compact pistol version was presented. Operation is extremely intuitive and the presence of a manual safety makes it even safer. The weighted net is contained in a funnel-shaped "pod" that is mounted at the muzzle end of the gun; the pod weighs 400 grams. Thanks to the nitrogen inflator, the net opens fully in less than a second and can neutralize the target up to a distance of 25-30 meters. The ready-to-launch time is less than three seconds. In a series of internal tests, the DefendAir demonstrated a 100 percent success rate in shooting down drones traveling at speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour.

ParaZero's DefendAir is part of a multi-layered net launcher system that includes man-portable launchers, fixed turrets with 360-degree coverage, and interceptor drone systems capable of tracking hostile UAVs directly in flight. The dimensions and materials of the net (Nylon, Dyneema or other materials) are also easily adaptable to operational requirements. In its man-portable version, it is certainly an intuitive and safe defense tool for use even in urban environments. ParaZero Technologies claims it obtained multiple orders from an Israeli defense agency for the DefendAir system (C-UAS) in early 2026, aimed at protecting troops and infrastructure from hostile drones.

Video: the DefendAir in action

ParaZero DefendAir anti-drone system technical specs

To find out more please visit the ParaZero website.