Rheinmetall's Skyranger 30 to Integrate MBDA's Small Anti-Drone Missile at ILA 2024.

At the 2024 International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) in Berlin, a significant partnership was established between Rheinmetall Electronics and MBDA Deutschland to enhance short-range mobile defense systems against drones. The two companies signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) that facilitates the integration of MBDA's Small Anti Drone Missile (SADM) into Rheinmetall's Skyranger 30 and other military vehicles.
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The Skyranger 30, developed by Rheinmetall Defence, is a sophisticated air defense system designed to provide highly mobile and effective protection against various aerial threats, including drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft (Picture source: ArmyRecognition)

This collaboration aims to address existing gaps in drone defense capabilities by leveraging the combined strengths of both companies' technologies. The SADM, utilizing Enforcer technology, is designed to precisely target and neutralize small to medium-sized drones at extended ranges. Conversely, the Skyranger 30 is equipped with a 30mm cannon that provides effective mobile defense against airborne threats at closer ranges, thanks to its blend of firepower, advanced sensor technology, and agility.

The Skyranger 30, developed by Rheinmetall Defence, is a sophisticated air defense system designed to provide highly mobile and effective protection against various aerial threats, including drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. It features a 30mm automatic cannon with a high rate of fire, integrated with advanced sensor technology for efficient target detection and tracking. Introduced to address the growing demand for versatile air defense solutions, the Skyranger 30 can operate in diverse and challenging environments.

Although the exact dates of production and service entry are not detailed, its deployment in military contexts suggests it has been actively integrated into defense operations in recent years. The Skyranger 30 is ideal for both permanent and temporary air defense setups, thanks to its rapid deployment capability and high mobility. Its state-of-the-art fire control systems and network-enabled operations allow it to link with other defense systems, enhancing the overall effectiveness of military force protection against aerial threats.

The partnership aims to develop long-term cooperation for integrating the SADM into the Skyranger 30 and other platforms, including the design, production, and integration of a launcher system onto various turret systems within Rheinmetall's digital system architecture. Demonstrations of this integration were showcased at the MBDA stand at ILA, highlighting the missile mounted on the turret of the Skyranger 30 system.

Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Germany, emphasized the urgency of addressing drone threats in current conflicts, stating that the collaboration aims to provide an optimized solution for drone defense by leveraging their missile technology with Rheinmetall's advanced turret systems. Timo Haas, Chief Digital Officer at Rheinmetall, commented on the strategic addition of the SADM to their portfolio, noting that preparations are already underway for an industrial setup to expedite implementation following customer approvals.

The SADM, utilizing Enforcer technology, is designed to precisely target and neutralize small to medium-sized drones at extended ranges (Picture source: ArmyRecognition)