Austria’s Military Modernization: Skyranger 30 Systems to Bolster Air Defence Capabilities

Austria’s Military Modernization: Skyranger 30 Systems to Bolster Air Defence Capabilities

(IN BRIEF) Austria is set to bolster its air defence capabilities with the procurement of 36 Skyranger 30 air defence systems mounted on Pandur EVO 6×6 vehicles from GDELS. This collaboration between Rheinmetall and GDELS marks a significant milestone in Austria’s military modernization efforts. The Skyranger 30 systems, equipped with high-performance cannons and guided missiles, will provide effective defence against aerial threats, including drones. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026, enhancing Austria’s operational mobility and readiness in addressing contemporary security challenges.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 23-Feb-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Austria’s military modernization efforts take a significant step forward as Rheinmetall AG (ETR: RHM), a German integrated technology group active in the automotive and defence industries, secures a major air defence project contract. Valued at a mid-three-digit million-euro range, the contract entails the acquisition of cutting-edge Skyranger air defence systems, with deliveries slated to begin in 2026.

Rheinmetall, serving as a subcontractor of GDELS, the vehicle manufacturer overseeing Austria’s Pandur wheeled armoured vehicle upgrade program, will integrate the Skyranger turret onto 36 Pandur EVO 6×6 vehicles. This strategic move aims to bolster Austria’s operational mobility and enhance its mobile air defence capabilities.

The Skyranger 30 system, equipped with a high-performance 30mm automatic cannon and Mistral guided missiles, offers effective defence against aerial threats, particularly drones. Its versatility allows mounting on various platforms, including the Pandur EVO, making it an ideal choice for Austria’s military requirements.

Armin Papperger, chairman of the executive board of Rheinmetall AG, remarked, “We greatly appreciate the trust of our friends and partners in Austria. Developed in Switzerland by Rheinmetall, this system will make a decisive contribution to improving air defence capabilities, first in Austria but soon in other countries, too.”

The procurement of Skyranger 30 systems represents Austria’s proactive approach to modernizing its air defence capabilities, bridging gaps in both stationary and mobile air defence. Oliver Dürr, CEO of Rheinmetall Air Defence, emphasized Rheinmetall’s technological leadership in short-range air defence, underscoring the company’s commitment to equipping European armed forces with cutting-edge solutions.

With the almost simultaneous introduction of a rapidly deployable 35mm solution, the Austrian military is now pointing the way in contemporary air defence. Progressive networking and integration of existing and higher-echelon systems will result in decisive strategic advantages.

The collaboration between Rheinmetall, GDELS, and Austrian authorities underscores the commitment to innovation and operational readiness in countering contemporary aerial threats. The deployment of Skyranger 30 systems marks a significant milestone in Austria’s military modernization journey, ensuring its armed forces are well-prepared to address evolving security challenges.

The new contract highlights Rheinmetall’s role in reequipping the armed forces of Europe to contend with new threats, including stationary and mobile air defence solutions from Rheinmetall Air Defence, headed by Oliver Dürr.

Media contact:

Oliver Hoffmann
Head of Press and Public Relations
Phone: +49 211 473-4748
Fax: +49 211 473-4157

SOURCE: RHEINMETALL AG