Ukraine Trains Its Armed Forces on Skynex Air Defense System.

The deployment of Skynex in Ukraine has enabled the armed forces to conduct live-fire exercises, demonstrating the system's effectiveness and the country's commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities. Thanks to its combination of advanced technologies, Skynex enhances the protection of critical infrastructure and reinforces Ukraine's air sovereignty. Training the Ukrainian armed forces is a crucial factor for the proper use and effectiveness of Skynex.
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Skynex is a short-range air defense system developed by the German company Rheinmetall. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

Skynex is a short-range air defense system developed by the German company Rheinmetall. Designed to detect, track, and neutralize a variety of aerial threats, it is particularly effective against drones, helicopters, aircraft, and low-altitude missiles. The system uses 35mm automatic cannons equipped with advanced ammunition, allowing it to intercept targets with high precision.

Ukraine has received two Skynex systems from Germany. The agreement for the supply of these systems was announced in December 2022, and deliveries took place in 2023. The integration of these systems into the Ukrainian arsenal represents progress in modernizing its air defense capabilities.

Skynex offers several advantages for Ukraine in the face of current threats. Its ability to effectively protect critical infrastructure, such as power plants and military bases, is essential for maintaining the country's resilience. Moreover, its responsiveness allows it to quickly counter sudden threats, which is crucial in a dynamic conflict environment.

The system is also versatile and capable of adapting to different situations on the battlefield. Its modular design facilitates rapid deployment and offers great tactical flexibility. Furthermore, Skynex can be integrated into larger air defense networks, allowing optimal coordination with other systems and units.

Skynex features a 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 automatic cannon, armed with programmable airburst ammunition (AHEAD). These sophisticated munitions explode at a precise distance in front of the target, releasing a burst of projectiles that significantly increase the chances of neutralization. The cannon has a firing range of about 4,000 meters and can engage targets at altitudes up to 3,500 meters.

Skynex features a 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 automatic cannon, armed with programmable airburst ammunition (AHEAD). (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

In addition to the main cannon, the system can be equipped with the Oerlikon Twin Gun GDF009 TREO, offering additional firepower. To extend its engagement capability, Skynex also integrates the HALCON SkyKnight C-RAM/C-PGM missile system. These missiles can reach targets at a maximum distance of 10,000 meters and an altitude of up to 6,000 meters, allowing the system to effectively counter longer-range threats.

Skynex is equipped with the primary radar Oerlikon X-TAR3D, which has a maximum range of 50 kilometers and can track targets up to an altitude of 10,000 meters. This advanced radar ensures precise detection and tracking of aerial threats. The system can also integrate additional 2D or 3D search radars to improve coverage and the resilience of the defense network.

An innovative feature of Skynex is its ability to integrate high-energy lasers. These lasers offer precision targeting and scalable lethality against various threats, including drones and guided projectiles, enabling layered defense.

Typically operated by a crew of two to four people, Skynex is designed to be flexible depending on mission requirements. Its modular design facilitates rapid deployment and integration with other air defense systems, thereby improving coordination and effectiveness on the battlefield.

The live-fire exercises conducted by the Ukrainian forces demonstrate not only their commitment to mastering this new equipment but also their determination to strengthen their air sovereignty. In a conflict where air superiority can make the difference, Skynex asserts itself as an indispensable strategic asset for Ukraine.

Image of the Ukrainian armed forces training on the Skynex system. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)