Rheinmetall has unveiled a new hybrid vehicle that combines a Leopard 2 tank hull with a Skyranger 35 mobile air defense system turret. This development suggests a potential replacement for the aging Gepard 1A2 self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) built on the Leopard 1 main battle tank chassis.
The Skyranger 35 is designed to provide short-range air defense against aerial threats such as drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft, as well as ground threats. It features a 35mm revolver cannon capable of firing up to 1,000 rounds per minute and is equipped with advanced sensors for 360° surveillance and target tracking. This system can operate autonomously or be integrated into larger air defense networks, enhancing the protection of mobile units and critical infrastructure.
The Skyranger 35 is equipped with a 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Cannon capable of firing 1,000 rounds per minute with an effective range of up to 4,000 meters. It uses programmable time-delay ammunition to enhance its ability to hit small and fast-moving targets. The system includes an integrated sensor suite with X-band or Ku-band radar, providing a detection range of up to 30 kilometers, and an electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) camera with a laser rangefinder for automatic target tracking.
This new vehicle could potentially replace older mobile air defense systems such as the Gepard anti-aircraft gun or other less advanced short-range air defense (SHORAD) systems. In terms of performance, this new vehicle will outclass the aging Gepard 1A2 SPAAG built on the Leopard 1 main battle tank chassis. The Gepard 1A2 is equipped with twin 35mm Oerlikon KDA autocannons, each with a firing rate of 550 rounds per minute, totaling 1,100 rounds per minute.
The Skyranger 35 is designed to counter various aerial threats, including UAVs, helicopters, and missiles, using programmable time-delay ammunition to enhance its ability to hit small and fast-moving targets. This system can operate autonomously or be integrated into larger air defense networks, enhancing the protection of mobile units and critical infrastructure.
The new hybrid vehicle is an ideal air defense system for armoured infantry brigades, providing a highly mobile and effective solution for countering aerial threats. This development reflects a broader growing interest in short-range air defense systems (SHORADS) as armed forces around the world seek to bolster their capabilities against emerging threats such as drones and cruise missiles.
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