Rheinmetall delivers Skyranger 30 verification model to Bundeswehr

Rheinmetall delivered the first Boxer Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence vehicle to the German Bundeswehr at the end of January 2025, as scheduled. This system serves as the verification model, intended for the Bundeswehr's required approval process. Following operator training, the admission trials are scheduled to commence in spring 2025, with serial production deliveries planned primarily for 2027 and early 2028.

The Bundeswehr commissioned Rheinmetall in February 2024 to develop and deliver one verification model and 18 series-produced vehicles of the Skyranger 30 system mounted on the Boxer 8x8 tactical vehicle. This system aims to address a critical capability gap in mobile air defence, offering a combination of mobility, protection, and precision against evolving threat scenarios at near ranges.

The Skyranger 30 integrates a 30mm revolving cannon, guided surface-to-air missiles, and necessary sensors onto a single platform. Initially, the German variant will be equipped with Stinger missiles, with provisions for future upgrades to a new missile specifically designed for drone defence. The system's design, featuring high dynamics, a broad elevation range, and advanced sensors, supports both autonomous and networked operations.

As part of the European Sky Shield initiative, the Skyranger 30 has garnered interest from other nations. Hungary ordered the conceptual development for a variant on the Lynx KF41 tracked vehicle in December 2023. Austria and Denmark have also placed orders for the Skyranger 30 on different platforms. Furthermore, the Netherlands announced in late January 2025 their intention to procure 22 Skyranger 30 systems.