Rheinmetall to supply Skyranger 30 air defence system to Austria
Rheinmetall has secured a significant contract with Austria to supply Skyranger 30 air defence systems mounted on Pandur wheeled armoured vehicles. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026.
German technology group Rheinmetall will supply 36 Skyranger 30 air defence systems to the Austrian Army. The systems will be integrated onto GDELS Pandur EVO 6x6 wheeled armoured vehicles, with deliveries commencing in 2026. The contract is valued in the mid-three-digit million-euro range.
This order represents a significant market breakthrough for the Skyranger 30 system in series production, following a development contract awarded by Hungary in December 2023. Rheinmetall is acting as a subcontractor to vehicle manufacturer GDELS, which is responsible for upgrading Austria's Pandur wheeled armoured vehicle fleet. The Skyranger 30 combines advanced sensors with a 30mm automatic cannon and Mistral missiles, offering mobile defence capabilities, particularly against drones.
The Austrian Army's decision to procure the Skyranger 30 is part of its broader initiative to enhance operational mobility and air defence capabilities. Developed by Rheinmetall's Swiss unit, the system is designed for integration onto various vehicle platforms, including the Lynx and Boxer. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted the trust placed by Austria and the system's contribution to air defence.
On the European market, this contract solidifies Rheinmetall's position in short-range air defence systems. The company anticipates further orders from Germany, Denmark, and Hungary. The agreement reflects a wider trend of European nations upgrading their defence capabilities to address emerging threats.