Austria procures state-of-the-art air defense system

Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Austrian Ministry of Defense with a comprehensive modernization of existing Skyguard air defense systems. Both sides have now signed the contract for the Skyguard Next Generation project in Vienna, in the presence of the Minister of Defense, Klaudia Tanner, with a value of 532 million EUR net. The contract has a duration of 48 months, starting in February 2024.

With this commission, Rheinmetall will realize one of the most ambitious projects in European air defense in the partner and neighboring country of Austria. For the Austrian Armed Forces, this represents an important step in the modernization process under the "Mission Forward", a development plan for the military.

Skyguard Next Generation is a product from the Skynex family of Rheinmetall Air Defence, the global technology leader in short-range air defense. The contract in Austria includes a total of seven tactical units, each consisting of four 35mm twin guns, a multi-sensor unit for airspace surveillance, target acquisition, identification, and tracking, as well as the command post. In addition, 28 existing 35mm twin guns at the customer's site will be upgraded to a new, highly modern standard. The contract also includes spare parts packages, training services, and the corresponding 35mm ammunition. The option to order an additional tactical unit is also contractually agreed upon.

The Skyguard Next Generation system is based on existing weapon systems of the Austrian Armed Forces. Existing Oerlikon 35mm twin guns are upgraded to the latest standard and integrated with target tracking sensors as part of a service life extension, and connected to Rheinmetall's Skymaster weapon control system.

The exceptional precision of the sensors allows detecting and identifying air targets early. The command system enables the tactical commander to create a local air situation picture, assess the threat situation, and trigger engagement in close coordination with higher authorities. The integration of surface-to-air missiles is also possible. The entire system is quickly deployable and offers the highest possible efficiency to the user in military operational planning. The guns can be operated both manually and unmanned, significantly enhancing soldier protection and combat effectiveness.

Skynex by Rheinmetall

The cannon-based air defense solutions from the "Skynex" product family are particularly suitable for close-range protection where missiles cannot effectively operate. The Skynex system consists of airspace surveillance, weapon control center, and effectors. The Oerlikon rapid-fire guns serve as effectors, capable of engaging targets up to 4,000 meters with a rate of fire of 1,000 rounds per minute.

The successes of the technically outdated 35mm anti-aircraft tank Gepard in Ukraine already demonstrate the efficiency with which a cannon-based air defense system can intercept air targets - especially cruise missiles and drones, emphasizing the continued relevance of short-range air defense capabilities.

In contrast, Skynex not only represents a generational leap in sensor technology and the possibility of a networked application of multiple tactical units, but also integration into the higher command system. A unique feature in weapon effectiveness is the use of Rheinmetall-developed time-programmable 35mm ammunition of the type Ahead, enabling maximum effectiveness against small and fast-moving targets. ALL INFORMATION about SKYNEX.

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