Rheinmetall is poised to secure a multi-billion-euro contract with the German Armed Forces for its advanced Skyranger self-propelled air defense systems, with expectations set for a finalization by late 2025. The deal, as estimated by CEO Armin Papperger, is valued between 6 billion and 8 billion euros, equivalent to approximately $6.9 billion to $9.2 billion, and would encompass a “significant number” of Skyranger systems.
Although specific quantities have not been officially confirmed, previous reports from Berlin indicate that there could be a demand for 500 to 600 units of the Skyranger 30 across various configurations, as noted in a recent article by Defence Industry Europe. Papperger elaborated on the procurement strategy, which is anticipated to roll out under a framework agreement, followed by a series of execution contracts in phases. Deliveries are expected to span until 2029, with an additional phase extending from 2029 to 2035.
This upcoming acquisition aligns strategically with Germany’s commitment to fulfilling NATO defense spending guidelines. By 2029, the country aims to allocate about 3.5 percent of its GDP to defense, a target coinciding with the anticipated revisions to alliance capability goals.
In a related development, Rheinmetall is moving forward with testing its Boxer Vehicles. The company is set to deliver the first Boxer Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defense vehicle to the Bundeswehr in February 2025. This verification model is meant for extensive training and testing protocols over the following months. Germany had previously ordered this testbed, along with an additional 18 Skyranger vehicles slated for production and delivery between 2027 and 2028.
The Skyranger 30 is an advanced air defense system designed by Rheinmetall Air Defence. It features a robust 30-millimeter KCE-ABM revolving cannon capable of firing programmable airburst munitions, targeting a range of aerial threats including drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. The system is equipped with a short-range missile launcher compatible with several interceptors, including the MBDA Mistral 3, RTX Stinger, and Halcon SkyKnight, providing operators with versatile options for engaging diverse aerial threats.
Looking ahead, future configurations of the Skyranger 30 are expected to include cutting-edge directed-energy weapons, with initial plans for laser systems rated between 20 kilowatts and scalable up to 100 kilowatts. This advancement aims to bolster the system’s efficacy in neutralizing small, fast-moving, and low-signature targets efficiently.
The Skyranger’s turret is designed to support dual radar target-acquisition mechanisms, featuring fixed active electronically scanned array (AESA) antennas for comprehensive 360-degree surveillance. Additionally, it incorporates multiple roof-mounted optoelectronic sensor packages for continuous day-and-night target tracking and identification.
Thanks to its modular design, the Skyranger can be integrated onto various platforms, whether stationary, wheeled, or tracked. This flexibility allows for effective point defense and mobile protection solutions, all while supporting an open systems architecture that facilitates cost-effective updates and mission-specific adaptations.
