The Skyranger 35 anti-shahid system is coming to Ukraine: what kind of system is it?
19 November 05:52
Germany is supplying Ukraine with a new element of anti-drone defense – a Skyranger 35 anti-aircraft gun based on the Leopard 1 tank. The delivery was announced by Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, who noted that the first vehicle would arrive next week. This was reported by German Aid to Ukraine, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The novelty will enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the fight against “Shahed”, FPV drones and other low-altitude air threats.
What is Skyranger 35?
The Skyranger 35 is a mobile air defense platform created by Rheinmetall to intercept air targets at low altitudes. The system is mounted on the Leopard 1 tracked chassis, which provides
- high cross-country ability and the ability to operate near the front line;
- armored protection for the crew;
- mobility required for quick change of position after hitting targets.
The unit is equipped with a 35-mm cannon firing high-precision AHEAD Air-Burst ammunition.
How Skyranger 35 works
The main feature of the system is ammunition that explodes in front of or above the target. Inside the projectile there are many tungsten elements that form a dense killing field.
Key characteristics:
- Rate of fire: about 1250 rounds/min
- Range: up to 3 km
- Target types: kamikaze drones, FPVs, reconnaissance UAVs, helicopters and other low-altitude aerial objects
This principle of operation is especially effective against small and maneuverable targets, which are the ones used by Russia on a large scale.
What’s next
Rheinmetall does not disclose the total number of units it plans to transfer to Ukraine, but confirms that the delivery of the first one has already been agreed. The system is expected to become an important part of the multi-layered Ukrainian air defense system that Kyiv is building together with its partners.
