Thu. Feb 6th, 2025

Austria Awards Rheinmetall Major Contract for Skyranger Air Defense Systems on Pandur Vehicles

Austria Awards Rheinmetall Major Contract for Skyranger Air Defence Systems on Pandur VehiclesAustria Awards Rheinmetall Major Contract for Skyranger Air Defence Systems on Pandur VehiclesAustria Awards Rheinmetall Major Contract for Skyranger Air Defence Systems on Pandur Vehicles
  • Contract valued in mid-three-digit million Euro range.
  • Skyranger systems to be delivered starting 2026.
  • 36 Pandur vehicles to be equipped with advanced air defense capabilities.

DÜSSELDORF, Germany – In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Austria has entrusted Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall with a major air defense project. The contract, worth a mid-three-digit million Euro range, involves the supply of the cutting-edge Skyranger air defense system, with deliveries set to commence in 2026.

As a part of this strategic defense initiative, Rheinmetall will function as a subcontractor for General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS), the manufacturer responsible for upgrading Austria’s fleet of Pandur wheeled armoured vehicles. This collaboration is a key component of the Austrian Army’s efforts to enhance its operational mobility.

The Skyranger system, known for its versatility, will be mounted on the 6×6 GDELS Pandur EVO vehicle platforms. A total of 36 Pandur vehicles in the Austrian fleet will be equipped with the Skyranger turret, significantly augmenting their mobile air defence capabilities. The system integrates advanced sensors, a high-performance 30mm automatic cannon, and guided Mistral missiles, making it a formidable asset in aerial defense.

This contract follows a development agreement with Hungary in December 2023 and represents the first series production order for the Skyranger system, marking a significant breakthrough in the market for this innovative technology.

The decision by Austria to upgrade its military hardware with Rheinmetall’s Skyranger system on the Pandur vehicles underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening its defensive capabilities in an increasingly complex global security environment.

ByLisa Luckas

Lisa Luckas is a Sr. Business News Editor at Nobot.News.

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