In a historic move, the Austrian defence ministry has formalized a significant partnership with Rheinmetall, initiating an extensive overhaul of its Skyguard air defence systems. The recently signed €532 million contract stands as a significant achievement for Rheinmetall Air Defence, a global leader in advanced close-range air defence technology.
The contract, ceremoniously signed in Vienna with the presence of Austrian Minister of Defence Klaudia Tanner, outlines the roadmap for Project Skyguard Next Generation. With a project timeline spanning 48 months, set to commence in February 2024, Rheinmetall is poised to undertake one of Europe's most ambitious air defence projects on behalf of Austria, a neighboring nation and a close ally of Germany.
For the Austrian Armed Forces, this initiative marks a pivotal stride in their "Mission Forward" rearmament program, aimed at modernizing and reinforcing the nation's military capabilities. At the heart of this transformative effort lies the Skyguard Next Generation, a key component of the esteemed Skynex family of products from Rheinmetall Air Defence.
The Austrian order comprises seven tactical units, each equipped with four 35mm guns, a sensor unit for airspace monitoring, and a command post. As part of the comprehensive modernization plan, twenty-eight existing 35mm guns in the Austrian Army's inventory will undergo state-of-the-art upgrades.
Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Executive Board of Rheinmetall AG, expressed immense satisfaction at securing this significant market win for Skynex technology. He underscored Austria's leading role in European antiaircraft and counter-drone defense, showcasing Rheinmetall's critical role in reshaping the armed forces of Europe to counter emerging threats.
According to Oliver Dürr, CEO of Rheinmetall Air Defence AG in Zürich, Austria's decision in favor of Skyguard Next Generation signifies a quantum leap in antiaircraft and counter-drone capabilities. Dürr also highlighted the order's significance for Rheinmetall, especially the Zürich plant, which will play a decisive role in project execution.
The Skyguard Next Generation system, built upon the Austrian Army's existing weapons systems, will undergo a service life extension program. This involves the comprehensive modernization of the existing 35mm Oerlikon twin guns, integrating them with high-precision sensors and Rheinmetall's Skymaster command system.
The advanced sensors enable early detection and identification of aerial targets, while the command system empowers operators to build a local picture, assess threat situations, and coordinate fire in close collaboration with high-echelon elements. The system is highly mobile, ensuring maximum efficiency during military planning, with the added advantage of dismountable and remotely operated guns.
Cannon-based air defence solutions from the Skynex family, particularly featuring a rate of fire of 1,000 rounds per minute and a maximum effective range of up to 4,000 meters, are ideal for short-range operations. Rheinmetall's programmable 35mm Ahead ammunition provides Skynex with a unique edge in successfully combatting aerial targets.
The success of the 35mm Gepard antiaircraft tank in Ukraine underscores the effectiveness of cannon-based systems in countering aerial threats, especially cruise missiles and drones. However, Skynex represents a generational leap, offering advanced sensor technology and networked application capabilities, making it a pivotal advancement in close-range air defence.
Rheinmetall Air Defence's securing of the €532 million contract for Skyguard modernization not only highlights its technological prowess but also reinforces its pivotal role in shaping the future of Europe's armed forces in response to evolving threats.
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Land Force