The Italian Army has taken delivery of its first Rheinmetall Skynex air defense system, with the battery handed over to the Air Defence Artillery Command in Sabaudia, Lazio.
The system strengthens the army’s close- and very-close-range air defense capability, providing enhanced protection against low-altitude threats, particularly unmanned aerial systems.
Rheinmetall was contracted in January to deliver the system under a 73-million-euro ($86-million) agreement, which includes an option to procure up to three additional Skynex systems.
Italy is the first NATO member state to introduce Rheinmetall’s Skynex technology, including the 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3.
NATO ally Romania has also recently selected Skynex, integrating it with gun systems already in service, notably the GDF-009 twin guns.
Skynex air defense systems are currently in operational use with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, where they have demonstrated effectiveness in countering airborne threats under combat conditions.
Skynex Air Defense System
The cannon-based system is designed to provide close-range air defense in scenarios where guided missiles are less effective.
It has a maximum firing rate of 1,000 rounds per minute and a range of up to 4 kilometers (2.5 miles).
The system employs programmable airburst ammunition, which is resistant to electronic countermeasures and ensures precise target engagement.
Compared with missile-based systems, the ammunition offers significantly greater cost-effectiveness.
Skynex is effective against drones, missiles, and both guided and unguided artillery shells, protecting critical infrastructure as well as deployed troop contingents in operational theaters.
Modular System
The Italian Skynex configuration consists of a Skynex Control Node 1 command and control module with the Skymaster Battle Management System, four fire control units centered on 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 mounts, and a radar surveillance module based on the X-TAR3D system, capable of monitoring airspace within 50 kilometers (31 miles), according to Analisi Difesa.
Thanks to its modular design, Skynex can reportedly be integrated with a wide range of sensors and effectors.
In addition to individual components, existing air defense systems, such as Rheinmetall’s Skyshield and Skyguard families, can also be integrated into the architecture as fire units.