Munich-based Hensoldt has entered into a significant long-term framework agreement with Rheinmetall Air Defence for the supply of the Spexer 2000 family of compact, ground-based surveillance radars. This strategic partnership aims to bolster Rheinmetall’s portfolio, particularly enhancing their counter-unmanned aerial system and the Skyranger 30 short-range air defense turret products.
Set to extend into the 2030s, this agreement is projected to have a potential value in the high three-digit million-euro range. The flexible arrangement will facilitate large-scale radar deliveries under binding procurement terms, enabling various segments of the Rheinmetall Group to place orders as needed.
Hensoldt’s Spexer 2000 radars are engineered for the automatic detection and classification of ground, maritime, and aerial targets, demonstrating their versatility in modern defense operations. In its standard configuration, the radar system can effectively detect targets up to 36 kilometers (22 miles) away, which includes a wide array of objects such as personnel, light vehicles, small boats, autonomous systems, and low-flying aircraft.
These advanced radars are already in use by the German Armed Forces, serving vital roles in field camp protection, high-energy laser drone defense, and multi-range air defense missions. The partnership with Rheinmetall positions these radars to play an integral role in enhancing air defense capabilities.
Rheinmetall’s Skyranger 30, another pivotal asset operational in Berlin’s military framework, represents a mobile weapon system that integrates a 30-millimeter cannon, various sensors, and optional missile systems, making it effective against a spectrum of airborne threats ranging from drones to fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.
A spokesperson from Hensoldt emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Together, Rheinmetall and HENSOLDT are making an important contribution to strengthening the air defense capabilities of the German Armed Forces and allied nations.” The cooperation not only aims to enhance operational readiness but also reinforces the commitment to strengthen the European defense industry, ensuring the availability of critical technologies for the future.
