Rheinmetall has delivered the Boxer Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence vehicle to the German Bundeswehr. This unit serves as the verification model, intended for the necessary approval process by the Bundeswehr. Following the training of personnel in the operation of the vehicle, the admission trial is scheduled to commence in spring 2025. Mass production deliveries are expected to primarily occur in 2027 and early 2028.
The Skyranger 30 air defence system aims to effectively addresses the existing critical capability gap in mobile air defence. This system provides an ideal blend of mobility, protection, flexibility, and precision, tailored to meet the increasing demands posed by complex threat scenarios at short and very close ranges. As a hybrid solution, it features a turret that integrates a robust 30mmx173 KCE revolver cannon, ground-to-air guided missiles, and essential sensors within a single platform.
In Germany, the Skyranger 30 will initially utilize the Stinger anti-aircraft missile, with plans to later transition to a newly developed specialized drone defence missile. The sophisticated design of its various weaponry, combined with high manoeuvrability and an extensive elevation range, along with advanced sensors, facilitates both autonomous and networked operations. The AHEAD ammunition, which allows for programmable airburst positioning, enhances the system’s effectiveness against drones. The compact turret is mounted on the 8×8 tactical Boxer vehicle.
The Skyranger 30 is a key component of the European Sky Shield initiative, with additional NATO and EU member states expressing interest in procurement or already initiating the process. In December 2023, Hungary entered into a contract with Rheinmetall for the conceptual development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the future air defence variant of the Lynx KF41 tracked vehicle. Concurrently, Austria and Denmark have placed orders for the Skyranger 30 on various vehicle platforms.
Other EU and NATO countries have also shown interest. At the end of January 2025, the Dutch Ministry of Defence announced plans to procure 22 Skyranger 30 systems, with the contract expected to be finalized before the conclusion of 2025.
At the end of February 2024, the Bundeswehr commissioned Rheinmetall to develop and deliver one verification model and 18 series production vehicles of the Skyranger 30 cannon-based air defence system on the Boxer vehicle.
