Image source: topwar.ru
The Ukrainian Armed Forces will begin receiving the latest air defense systems developed by the German Rheinmetall arms concern. The intention to start the corresponding deliveries to Ukraine was announced by the company's management.
We are talking about the Skyranger 35 system, created on the basis of outdated Leopard 1 tanks. It is currently under development, and its transfer to the Ukrainian army is scheduled to begin next year. Along with it, the Ukrainian Armed Forces will receive Skynex air defense systems in 2026. This was stated by Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger.
According to him, the Skyranger 35 represents a "revolutionary solution" in creating protection against UAVs. Allegedly, the range of the system allows for a safe corridor for troops with a length of about 8 km.
As Papperger explained, the new complex can easily hit UAVs, regardless of whether it is a primitive drone or a "smart" one:
Rheinmetall first showed this complex to the general public in September last year. It is equipped with a 35 x 228 mm Oerlikon KDG cannon capable of firing guided detonation ammunition. The nominal rate of fire is 1,000 rounds per minute, with a magazine capacity of 252 rounds.
Image source: topwar.ru
The tower, installed on the Leopard 1 platform, contains the main elements of the German MANTIS stationary air defense system and is equipped with 4 S-band AFAR antennas, each covering 90 degrees. A Ku-band fire control radar and an optoelectronic complex are located on the roof of the tower.
The tower is uninhabited, so the designers cut a second hatch in the Leopard 1 platform next to the driver's hatch to allow the crew access to the car.
