NATO Nations Invest in Low-Cost Drone Interceptors to Counter Aerial Threats
NATO countries, including Lithuania, are purchasing low-cost drone interceptors to address the growing threat of aerial attacks. Lithuania recently acquired 48 Merops interceptors from American manufacturer Perennial Autonomy, marking a shift towards more affordable air defense solutions. These systems are designed to counter drones like the Iranian Shahed, which have been used in conflicts involving U.S. troops. The Merops system, costing $15,000 per shot, offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional defense systems like the Patriot missile, which costs over $3 million per unit. This move is part of a broader strategy to balance the cost disparity between launching and intercepting drones. 
