Ukraine has reportedly received at least two Skynex air defense batteries from Germany, offering an effective and economical solution to counter Russian drones, cruise missiles, and potentially heavy FAB bombs.
Neutralize Incoming Russian Threat
Developed as an evolution of Germany’s Gepard system, Skynex features advanced radar and programmable ammunition, enhancing its precision and effectiveness.
Recently, footage emerged of Skynex being used in Kyiv’s nighttime defense, showing the system engaging Russian targets with its distinctive four-shot bursts, each designed to neutralize incoming threats with high efficiency.
Skynex, an export variant of Germany’s MANTIS system, operates using the 35mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3, capable of firing up to 1,000 rounds per minute, according to WP.
The gun uses either armor-piercing or programmable AHEAD ammunition, with the latter designed to deploy a dense “cloud” of tungsten fragments that create a lethal barrier in front of targets, making it ideal for intercepting small, agile objects such as drones.
Less Expensive than Anti Air Missiles
With an effective range of up to three miles, the Skynex system can engage a broad range of targets, from drones and cruise missiles to heavy-duty bombs and artillery shells with thick steel casings.
Guided by radar or an electro-optical targeting head equipped with thermal imaging and a laser rangefinder, Skynex can accurately deploy its four-shot bursts, each burst costing tens of thousands of euros — considerably less than conventional anti-air missiles, which can cost several hundred thousand euros per launch.
Each Skynex turret weighs around 5,100 kg and carries 252 rounds, enough ammunition to handle multiple targets in rapid succession.
While typically used in a stationary form on trucks, the Skynex has generated interest in mobile applications, including a recent prototype mounted on a Leopard 1A5 tank, tested successfully in field exercises.
