Rheinmetall Showcases Skyranger Air Defense System at ILA Berlin 2026

Technology group Rheinmetall is presenting its Skyranger mobile air defense system at the ILA Berlin 2026 air show, held from June 10-14, 2026, at the Berlin ExpoCenter Airport. The company is positioning itself as a system partner for national and international armed forces, focusing on air defense capabilities.

The importance of ground-based air defense has increased in Europe, partly due to the conflict in Ukraine. Several NATO and EU nations, including Germany, have procured Rheinmetall's Skyranger 30 system. It combines mobility, protection, flexibility, and precision to meet current and future near-range threats.

The exhibition features the Skyranger 30 turret, integrated with MBDA's DefendAir missile, mounted on an 8x8 Boxer armored vehicle. Rheinmetall aims to address the global need for resilient and mobile short-range air defense, particularly against drone and loitering munition threats.

The system utilizes a 30mm KCE revolver cannon with a range of up to 3,000 meters and can fire programmable Airburst ammunition for effective engagement of small drones. Its modular design allows for the integration of short-range air-defense missiles (SHORAD), and its sensors provide 360-degree situational awareness for autonomous or networked operations.

The Skyranger is increasingly establishing itself as a European standard and is a key component of the European Sky Shield Initiative. Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Romania have ordered the system in various configurations. Denmark is also planning acquisitions, and the system is intended for Ukrainian forces. Rheinmetall is expanding its production capacity to meet growing global demand.