Leopard 1 Skyranger 35: Rheinmetall Boosts Ukraine’s Protection Against Drones and Missiles

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Rheinmetall has confirmed the delivery of additional Skyranger 35 air defense systems to Ukraine, mounted on the proven Leopard 1 chassis. The order, valued at several million euros, is financed by a European Union member state through the use of frozen Russian assets. Production and integration of the systems will be carried out by Rheinmetall Italia SpA at its headquarters in Rome.

Photo: rheinmetall.com

A Strategic Partnership for Ukraine’s Defense

The announcement highlights the growing cooperation between European defense industries and Ukraine in strengthening its air defense capabilities. Rheinmetall’s CEO, Armin Papperger, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the company by Ukraine, while also acknowledging the EU nation that provided financial backing. This collaboration underscores the ongoing commitment of European partners to support Ukraine in defending its airspace.

The Leopard 1 Skyranger 35 Platform

The Leopard 1 Skyranger 35 combines the mobility and protection of a tracked armored vehicle with the exceptional effectiveness of a gun-based air defense system. At its core is the KDG 35/1000 revolver cannon, chambered in 35 mm x 228 caliber, capable of firing up to 1,000 rounds per minute. With an effective range of 4,000 meters, the weapon system is closely related to the Oerlikon Revolver Cannon Mk 3, a proven design in modern air defense.

Advanced AHEAD Ammunition Technology

One of the defining features of the Skyranger 35 is its ability to employ AHEAD (Advanced Hit Efficiency And Destruction) ammunition. This specialized round disperses a cloud of sub-projectiles directly in front of the target, creating a lethal barrier against incoming threats. The technology allows the system to counter not only conventional aircraft but also low, slow, and small aerial threats such as drones and loitering munitions.

Future-Ready with Missile Integration

While the current configuration relies on its high-performance cannon, Rheinmetall has designed the Skyranger 35 with modularity in mind. In the future, the system can be upgraded with modern guided missiles to expand its engagement envelope. This flexibility ensures that the platform remains relevant against evolving aerial threats.

Design and Mobility of the Turret System

The Skyranger 35 is derived from the mobile Skyshield air defense system, featuring a turret equipped with the 35 mm revolver cannon. The unmanned turret weighs 4.25 tons, including ammunition, and can elevate up to 85 degrees with full 360-degree rotation. Operated by two crew members inside the vehicle, the turret provides both protection and efficiency in combat operations.

Optimized Firepower and Ammunition Capacity

The revolver cannon can be fired in single shots, rapid single-fire mode at 200 rounds per minute, or at its maximum rate of 1,000 rounds per minute. The turret carries 252 ready-to-fire rounds, ensuring sustained firepower during engagements. This versatility allows operators to adapt their firing mode depending on the type of threat encountered.

Integrated Sensor Suite for Target Detection

The Skyranger 35 is equipped with a comprehensive sensor package to maximize its effectiveness. It includes an X-band or Ku-band tracking radar with a range of up to 30 kilometers, as well as an electro-optical/infrared camera system with a laser rangefinder and automatic target tracking. These sensors enable the system to detect, track, and engage aerial threats with high precision.

C-RAM and Counter-Drone Capabilities

Beyond traditional air defense roles, the Skyranger 35 is optimized for Counter-Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (C-RAM) missions. Its ability to intercept incoming projectiles makes it a valuable asset for protecting critical infrastructure and frontline units. The system’s counter-drone capabilities are particularly relevant in modern conflicts, where unmanned aerial vehicles pose a growing threat.

Introduction of the Upgraded Skyranger 35

In September 2023, Rheinmetall unveiled a new version of the Skyranger 35 with significant enhancements. The redesigned turret now incorporates the Oerlikon AMMR active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. Operating in the S-band, this radar can detect small drones at ranges of up to 5 kilometers and larger fighter-sized aircraft at distances of up to 20 kilometers.

A Modern Solution for Modern Threats

The upgraded radar system greatly improves situational awareness and early warning capabilities. By integrating advanced detection technology, the Skyranger 35 ensures that operators can respond quickly to a wide spectrum of aerial threats. This makes the platform a highly adaptable solution for the complex air defense challenges of today’s battlefields.

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