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Ukraine Deploys 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 with Air Burst Ammo to Destroy Russian Drones.
On October 30, 2024, Twitter account @Trotes936897 shared images of the Ukrainian Army using the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 air defense cannon in field exercises, deploying air burst ammunition with tungsten submunitions to target and shoot down drones. This deployment highlights Ukraine's evolving defensive capabilities in response to the growing aerial threats, particularly drones.
Ukrainian 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 with Air Burst Ammo (Picture source: Ukraine MoD)
The Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 is a remote-controlled 35mm air defense cannon designed for quick and precise response against aerial threats. This system features a tracking radar and an electro-optical sensor unit, enabling it to detect, track, and engage targets with high accuracy. A unique feature of this cannon lies in its ability to process target data from 3D or 2D search radars and higher-order control systems, allowing it to operate autonomously.
One of the major innovations of this system is the integration of Oerlikon Ahead programmable air burst ammunition. These rounds are optimized to counter a wide range of threats, including drones, rockets, artillery shells, and missiles. The rounds burst before impact, dispersing tungsten submunitions to create a cloud of fragments capable of neutralizing airborne targets with remarkable efficiency. This feature allows precise targeting and maximizes effectiveness against small aerial targets, often challenging to intercept.
Since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict, several advanced weapons systems, including the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3, have been delivered to reinforce Ukraine’s defensive capabilities against the increasing aerial threats. The delivery of these systems to Ukraine is part of a series of bilateral agreements aimed at modernizing and adapting Ukraine’s arsenal to the realities of modern warfare. As early as 2022, the first high-precision air defense equipment was sent to Ukraine, responding to drone incursions and rocket attacks. The reception of the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 reflects a recent phase in Ukraine’s defensive reinforcement, focusing on integrating autonomous technologies and smart munitions to address diverse and rapidly evolving threats. This timeline of deliveries, marked by the steady arrival of new technological solutions, illustrates the international community’s determination to support Ukraine in defending its airspace against increasingly sophisticated attacks. However, the exact number of Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 systems delivered to Ukraine has not been officially confirmed.
These systems were provided to Ukraine by Switzerland, through Rheinmetall Air Defence, a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG specializing in advanced air defense systems. Although Switzerland traditionally adheres to a strict policy of neutrality, some of these systems have reportedly been delivered through re-export agreements involving third countries, enabling Ukraine to benefit from this advanced technology to enhance its air defense. Rheinmetall, with recognized expertise in defense solutions, has significantly contributed to equipping the Ukrainian army, providing systems capable of addressing contemporary aerial threats, notably those posed by drones and missiles, which have become prevalent in the ongoing conflict.
The deployment of this technology by the Ukrainian army marks an important step in its ability to counter drones, which play an increasingly strategic role in modern conflicts. Drones, used for surveillance, intelligence, and even targeted strikes, pose an asymmetric threat requiring sophisticated air defense systems. In the context of the conflict in Ukraine, where drones are widely employed by both sides, the integration of the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 provides a technological response adapted to the challenges of the modern battlefield.
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022, Germany and Ukraine have developed reinforced military collaboration, marked by equipment deliveries, military training, and strategic support. Initially cautious, Germany gradually increased its support by supplying essential weaponry such as Gepard anti-aircraft cannons, Leopard 2 tanks, and IRIS-T air defense systems, which have played a key role in protecting Ukrainian infrastructure against Russian airstrikes. Germany has also provided training for Ukrainian soldiers, facilitating the effective use of these sophisticated systems on the battlefield.
Additionally, the cooperation is not limited to material deliveries; Germany has engaged in logistical and maintenance support programs to ensure these systems’ sustainable operation. Through bilateral agreements and coordination with NATO partners, Germany also contributes to strategic discussions to align Ukraine's defense needs with available capabilities. This ongoing commitment strengthens both Ukraine’s defensive capacity and Germany’s role as a major player in European security.
On the ground, these systems are deployed to protect military positions, critical infrastructure, and civilian areas from drone, missile, and artillery attacks, which have significantly intensified. Their use is part of a "multi-layered shield" strategy, combining different types of defense to intercept threats at various altitudes and ranges. Anti-aircraft cannons like the Revolver Gun Mk3 are positioned close to the front lines for rapid and effective coverage, targeting drones and short-range rockets, while longer-range defense systems like the IRIS-T are employed to intercept missiles and high-altitude drones before they reach their targets.
This approach not only protects ground forces and strategic infrastructure but also reduces civilian casualties by quickly responding to threats that penetrate defensive lines. By integrating these technologies in coordination with radar and surveillance units, Ukraine aims to create a resilient air defense capable of responding to unpredictable attacks and increasing the mobility of its troops on the front.