Italy To Acquire Skynex Air Defence System From Rheinmetall

The Italian Army has decided to introduce Skynex air defence systems from Rheinmetall. The order to supply a first system worth a total of €73m has now been placed at Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A., Rome. The contract includes an option to supply three additional systems worth €204m.

A Skynex system consists of a sensor and tracking unit for air surveillance, a control station as a command-and-control centre and four 35mm firing units. Skynex systems are designed to counter threats from missiles, artillery and mortars, as well as drones and loitering munitions – both for national defence and for the protection of contingents in operational areas.

The scheduled delivery of the pilot system is to be completed during Q2/2026, while three follow-up systems, as option, could be contractualized within 2027. The distribution package includes the appropriate ammunition, training and maintenance services as well as spare parts.

Italy is the first NATO member state to opt for Rheinmetall's Skynex technology Skynex technology including the Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm. The successful order is thus an important corner stone in Rheinmetall's strategy of establishing a new standard in the field of cannon-based air defence for international armed forces. NATO member Romania also recently opted for Skynex in combination with another type of gun already in service there (GDF-009 twin guns). Skynex air defence systems are already proving their quality to the Ukrainian armed forces in the harsh conditions of war, protecting people and property from airborne threats.

Rheinmetall is also promisingly positioned in Italy in the field of heavy combat vehicles. Together with its partner company Leonardo, Rheinmetall is expecting large-volume orders to equip the Italian armed forces with combat vehicles, namely the Italian main battle tank (MBT) and the Lynx armored infantry combat system (AICS).

Rheinmetall already has a strong presence in Italy and generates sales of around €1bn with three subsidiaries – including Rheinmetall Italia – and a total of around 1,500 employees at five locations.

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