Germany, Hungary, and Denmark to Jointly Procure Air Defence Systems for EU 'Sky Shield'

During the largest international defence and security exhibition, Eurosatory, held in Paris, Germany, Hungary, and Denmark signed a protocol to jointly procure Skyranger air defence turret systems. These systems will be used as part of the initiative to create a joint European air defence system, 'Sky Shield', as reported by the German Ministry of Defence.

The Skyranger systems, with medium and short-range capabilities, will be purchased from the German arms company Rheinmetall. The first unit is expected to be delivered to the German army by the end of this year. The primary task of these systems is to provide ground units with a mobile system capable of destroying aircraft, drones, airborne munitions, and cruise missiles.

The German Ministry of Defence noted that this system can be integrated onto various platforms, such as Boxer armoured personnel carriers. The German army plans to use these systems in this manner, while Hungary intends to install the Skyranger on its new Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, and Denmark on its Piranha wheeled tanks.

At the Paris exhibition, Rheinmetall showcased the Skyranger 35 turret on a Leopard 2 tank chassis as a tactical anti-aircraft system. The Lynx KF41 Skyranger 30 and Boxer Skyranger 30 wheeled anti-aircraft tank were also presented for the first time.

Previously, Rheinmetall announced its intention to deliver a Skyranger system to Ukraine based on the Leopard 1 main battle tank.

Germany initiated the creation of 'Sky Shield' in August 2022 amid the full-scale war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. This system aims to develop an integrated European air defence system, including measures to counter ballistic missiles. To date, 22 countries have joined this initiative.