Iran tests new German Skynex-inspired short-range air defense system in large-scale military drills.

As reported by Iran Defense on January 20, 2025, Iran conducted large-scale military exercises in Torbat-e Jam, Razavi Khorasan province. These drills included various military systems and operational tactics. Among the systems unveiled was a counter-drone platform reportedly modeled on the German-made Rheinmetall Skynex. Mounted on a Russian KamAZ 6x6 truck, the Iranian system was later confirmed to feature twin Samavat 35mm guns, consistent with Iran's continued use of 35mm anti-aircraft guns. Furthermore, the turret design of the system seems to share characteristics with that of the Soleimani 402 tank.
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Mounted on a Russian KamAZ 6x6 truck, the Iranian Skynex-inspired air defense system could feature a 57mm cannon, differing from the original 35mm caliber of the German design. (Picture source: Twitter/Iran Defense)

The original Rheinmetall Skynex, produced by Rheinmetall Italy, is a short-range air defense (SHORAD) system with modular architecture. It separates airspace surveillance from effectors and supports multiple sensors and weapons, including the 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3 with programmable airburst ammunition and high-energy lasers. The Skynex shares technological features with Rheinmetall’s MANTIS, Skyshield, and Skyranger 35 systems, all of which employ 35mm rapid-fire cannons to counter drones, missiles, and aircraft.

The Iranian Army Ground Forces (NEZAJA) conducted the exercises over two days to evaluate equipment and operational readiness. Units participating included artillery, armored divisions, airborne forces, drones, electronic warfare, and missile units. During the first phase, rapid reaction forces simulated operations targeting individuals identified as terrorist leaders before entering Iran. This phase utilized drones, missiles, bombs, helicopters, and armored vehicles. The exercises incorporated offensive elements, reflecting a shift from traditionally defensive scenarios.

Key systems tested included various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as the Ababil-5 armed drone and the newer Ababil-3N and Ababil-4 variants. Loitering munitions, including the Fateh, also referred to as Zoobin in naval roles, were deployed in significant numbers. Counter-drone systems featured radar units mounted on Aras-2 tactical vehicles and remote weapon stations equipped with Akhgar miniguns for close-range air defense.

Missile capabilities were another central focus of these exercises. The Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) was demonstrated by the 840th Missile Group. Additional systems included the Fajr-5 multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) with guided Fajr-5C rockets, the Almas-1 precision-guided missile, and the Dehlaviyeh anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). Ground robotics were also tested, with the Caracal platform deployed for targeting and support tasks.

Brigadier General Nozar Nemati announced during the exercises that an integrated counter-micro-aircraft system had progressed from evaluation to operational testing. The exercises emphasized mobility and dynamic deployments under simulated combat conditions. General Kioumars Heydari stated that U.S. regional interests are within the operational range of Iranian forces and highlighted the use of combined offensive and defensive strategies to address hybrid warfare.

Separately, Iran conducted the "Eqtedar 1403" air defense exercise in January 2025. This drill focused on protecting critical infrastructure, including the Natanz nuclear facility in Isfahan province, against aerial threats such as drones and cruise missiles. The scenarios included electronic warfare to test system readiness. Systems used included the Dezful and Dey-9, designed for low-altitude interception, and the medium-range 3rd Khordad, tested under electronic warfare conditions.

Beyond these exercises, Iran continues to expand its air defense capabilities with the introduction of new air defense systems. In February 2024, the Arman long-range anti-ballistic missile system was unveiled, capable of detecting targets at 180 kilometers and engaging them within 120 kilometers. It can engage six targets simultaneously and become operational in under three minutes. The Azarakhsh short-range air defense system features 3D radar and electro-optical tracking with 360-degree coverage. In 2021, the Zoubin system was introduced for short-range threats, including cruise missiles and drones, with a detection range of 30 kilometers and the ability to engage eight targets simultaneously. These systems demonstrate Iran’s continued efforts to enhance its domestic air defense capabilities.