Ukraine bolsters air defense with Germany's Skynex, the notorious drone slayer

The German government regularly releases updates on the military aid it provides to Ukraine. As of the April update, Ukraine has been equipped with additional Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles, technical vehicles, various handheld weapons, ammunition, 155 mm calibre artillery shells, and, notably, another Skynex system. This is just the second instance of such an advanced air defence system being provided to the Ukrainian forces.

Including an extra Skynex unit is a significant boost for the Ukrainian forces, who have been requesting support for any air defence mechanisms from the Western world for months. This includes systems specifically designed to target drones, which have been extensively used throughout the conflict in Ukraine.

A key component of the Skynex system is its Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3, a 35 mm calibre weapon capable of discharging up to 1,000 rounds per minute. It boasts a range of approximately 4 kilometres, enabling it to effectively counter even large groups of small FPV (first-person view) drones. This is particularly due to its programming to detonate just before reaching the target, dispersing tungsten submunitions to extend the impact area.

This gun can be mounted onto a truck's chassis, providing remarkable mobility. This flexibility allows it to be relocated as necessary to safeguard various assets. It's important to highlight that the Skynex system encompasses more than just the gun; it also includes a command centre and radar, with provisions for installation or mounting on a transporter or truck. The radar can identify incoming targets up to 50 kilometres away.

The Skynex falls into the CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) category, serving as a last defence against inbound threats. It is an artillery-based system, which makes it a cost-effective solution compared to missile systems like the Patriot, which aren't typically deployed against drones.