Drones and unmarked cars are being used by police after drivers had their cars “shot at” on two major roads.

The additional tactics are being rolled out to deter yobs from causing any further criminal damage.

It comes after at least 10 vehicles were “shot at” as they travelled along the A2 near Darenth.

Objects were fired from an area next to the carriageway at around 5.50pm last Thursday, causing the windows and bodywork on cars, coaches and lorries to be damaged.

On the same day, drivers reported rocks and “heavy objects” being lobbed at them from bridges along the M20 near Junction 4 for Leybourne.

This happened between 9pm and 10pm, however, officers are not linking the two together.

One motorist told KentOnline the incident scared him “half to death”. He will have to have to fork out £950 to replace his windscreen.

A thermal imaging drone in action along a section of the M20. Video: Kent Police

He added: “There was this almighty bang on my passenger side and glass shards were left on the seats.

“It didn't quite go through, but I could hear the glass straining.”

Since the attacks last, police have been carrying out investigations in both areas.

Officers have now confirmed drones are being flown near the two roads to help deter and detect any further incidents of criminal damage.

Additional patrols, including unmarked vehicles, are also being used.

Chief Inspector Craig West said: “Throwing or firing items at moving traffic is incredibly dangerous and it is fortunate nobody was injured as a result of either of these incidents.

“Anyone found to have been responsible for putting road users in danger can expect to be arrested and brought before the courts.

“I would like to assure motorists that we are taking the reports seriously and have increased our patrols in the areas surrounding the affected sections of the A2 and M20.

“This includes the use of drones with thermal imaging cameras that are being used to monitor footpaths and wooded areas, and will allow officers to respond quickly to any suspicious activity.

“Volunteer officers from the Special Constabulary have also been assisting us.”

Anyone with information about the incidents is urged to report it online quoting reference 46/189304/24 for the A2 or reference 46/190243/24 for the M20.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by completing an online form.