The Italian Army has chosen Rheinmetall‘s Skynex air defence systems to strengthen its national and operational security capabilities. The initial order, valued at €73 million, has been placed with Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A., with an option to procure three additional systems for €204 million. This decision marks Italy as the first NATO member to adopt Skynex technology, positioning it as a cornerstone of advanced cannon-based air defence.
The Skynex system is tailored for close-range protection, offering a highly effective solution against missiles, artillery, drones, and loitering munitions. A single system includes a sensor and tracking unit for air surveillance, a command-and-control centre, and four 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 firing units. These cannons fire at 1,000 rounds per minute and have a range of up to 4 kilometres, using programmable Ahead ammunition to ensure precision and counter electronic warfare measures.
The initial system is scheduled for delivery by Q2 2026, with follow-up systems potentially being ordered by 2027. The comprehensive contract covers ammunition, training, maintenance services, and spare parts.
Skynex employs a modular approach, allowing integration with various sensors, effectors, and existing Rheinmetall systems like Skyshield and Skyguard. Italy’s configuration includes the XTAR 3D radar, capable of monitoring airspace within a 50 km radius, enhancing situational awareness and target assignment.
This purchase underscores Rheinmetall’s growing footprint in Italy, where it operates three subsidiaries with 1,500 employees across five locations, generating annual sales of €1 billion. Beyond air defence, Rheinmetall, in partnership with Leonardo, anticipates large-scale orders to supply the Italian Armed Forces with advanced combat vehicles, including the Italian main battle tank (MBT) and the Lynx Armored Infantry Combat System (AICS).
Italy’s investment in Skynex reflects its strategic commitment to modernizing its defence infrastructure. The system has already proven its value on the battlefield, notably in Ukraine, where it has demonstrated exceptional efficiency against drones and cruise missiles.
