The Italian Army has contracted Rheinmetall Italia to deliver the first of four Skynex air defence systems, marking a significant acquisition in the Nato region.
The initial contract, valued at €73m ($75m), includes the potential for three additional systems at a cost of €204m.
Each Skynex system comprises an air surveillance sensor and tracking unit, a command-and-control centre, and four 35mm firing units, designed to counter threats such as missiles, artillery, mortars, drones, and loitering munitions.
The 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 cannons are noted to be capable of firing 1,000 rounds per minute with a range of up to 4km.
Delivery of the first system is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026, with the option for the remaining systems to be contracted within 2027.
This package also encompasses ammunition, training and maintenance services, and spare parts.
Italy is said to be the first Nato member to adopt Rheinmetall's Skynex technology, including the advanced Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm.
NATO ally Romania has also selected Skynex, pairing it with existing GDF-009 twin guns.
Rheinmetall, in partnership with Leonardo, also anticipates substantial orders for combat vehicles for the Italian armed forces, focusing on main battle tanks and the Lynx armoured infantry combat system.
The Skynex system’s programmable Ahead ammunition is resistant to electronic countermeasures and offers precise target engagement, presenting a cost-effective alternative to missile-based systems.
Its design separates airspace surveillance from effectors, with Italy choosing Rheinmetall's XTAR 3D radar for monitoring up to a 50km radius.
It offers high autonomy, integrating various modern air defence systems and only requires a dedicated tracking unit.
Existing Rheinmetall air defence systems such as the Skyshield and Skyguard families can also be integrated into Skynex's new architecture as firing units.
The remote command-and-control centre displays the air situation on a map, facilitating target assignment to connected air defence assets in the field.
