- Key Deal with Denmark Strengthens NATO Ties
- The Skyranger is a mobile air defense system designed primarily to protect against modern aerial threats, such as drones, helicopters, low-flying aircraft, and cruise missiles.
Mon Sep 29 2024 – 07:42:40 UTC- German DAX-listed arms maker Rheinmetall secured a significant contract to supply mobile air defence systems to Denmark, further solidifying its position as a leader in the sector.
The agreement includes 16 Skyranger 30 turrets and additional equipment, valued in the low three-digit million euro range, the company said. Ammunition worth a low double-digit million euro amount is also part of the order. Deliveries are set for 2027 and 2028, with a prototype expected by late 2026.
Strategic Investment in Denmark’s Military
Lieutenant General Per Pugholm Olsen emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating that the Skyranger 30 is vital for achieving the Danish brigade’s full operational capacity. The decision was made in collaboration with Defence Command, highlighting the system’s critical role in enhancing Denmark’s defensive capabilities.
The Skyranger is a cutting-edge mobile air defense system designed primarily to protect against modern aerial threats, such as drones, helicopters, low-flying aircraft, and cruise missiles. It provides close and very short-range air defense (C-RAM) by integrating advanced sensors, a 30mm revolver cannon, surface-to-air missiles, and other guided systems on a mobile platform, making it versatile and highly adaptable in various combat scenarios.
The Skyranger’s key features include:
- Precision and flexibility in engaging multiple types of aerial threats.
- Mobility, allowing it to be deployed on various vehicle platforms, such as armored vehicles.
- Advanced sensors for autonomous and networked operations.
- Airburst ammunition, especially effective against drones and other small, agile targets.
Overall, the Skyranger provides a robust air defense solution for close-range protection in rapidly changing threat environments.
Austria and Germany Expand Air Defense Capabilities with Rheinmetall’s Advanced Systems
In February 2024, Austria entrusted Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall with a major air defense contract, valued in the mid-three-digit million euro range. The deal involves the delivery of the cutting-edge Skyranger air defense system, set to begin in 2026. Rheinmetall will act as a subcontractor to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS), the main contractor responsible for upgrading Austria’s Pandur wheeled armored vehicles, further enhancing the Austrian Army’s mobility and defense capabilities.
Germany Boosts Defense with €595 Million Skyranger 30 Contract
Simultaneously in February, the German armed forces awarded Rheinmetall a significant €595 million contract for the Skyranger 30 mobile air defense system. The contract includes a prototype and 18 production vehicles, with an option for 30 additional systems. The prototype is slated for delivery by the end of 2024, marking a major step in Germany’s efforts to strengthen its air defense capabilities in response to evolving threats
Rheinmetall Expands NATO Collaboration
Oliver Duerr, CEO of Rheinmetall Electronic Solutions, expressed gratitude for Denmark’s trust, noting the system’s adaptability. The Skyranger 30’s modular design integrates a 30mm revolver cannon, surface-to-air missiles, and advanced sensors, providing comprehensive protection against modern threats, particularly drones.
This order strengthens Rheinmetall’s reputation, following similar deals with Austria and Hungary, and is a key component of NATO’s evolving air defence strategy.
Rheinmetall Reports Record Growth and Forecasts Continued Expansion
In March 2024, Rheinmetall announced consolidated sales growth of 12%, reaching €7.18 billion. The company’s EBIT before purchase price allocation hit €968 million, while the operating result increased by 19% to a record €918 million. The group’s backlog also reached an all-time high of €38.3 billion, a 44% increase from the previous year. Additionally, Rheinmetall proposed a dividend of €5.70 per share, up from €4.30.
Looking ahead, the company expects sales to surpass €10 billion for the first time in its history, driven by heightened demand for its state-of-the-art defense technology amid Europe’s evolving security landscape.