Ukraine has begun deploying German-donated Skynex air defense systems as it continues to face persistent Russian drone and missile strikes. Recent footage celebrating the Day of the Air Force of Ukraine showcased these advanced systems, underscoring their crucial role in strengthening the country’s air defenses.
👍Ukraine received a battery of the latest Skynex air defense systems
The Skynex anti-aircraft complex is a high-tech air defense system that has a radar with a range of 50 km, a command post and 4 guns, each of which is equipped with electro-optical sensors and a tracking… pic.twitter.com/6cG1myppCg
— Jürgen Nauditt 🇩🇪🇺🇦 (@jurgen_nauditt) January 30, 2024
Developed by Rheinmetall Air Defense, the Skynex system features the Oerlikon Revolver Gun Mk3, a 35mm remote-controlled anti-aircraft gun equipped with radar and electro-optical sensors. This high-precision weapon is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, including drones, missiles, aircraft, and helicopters. The system’s ability to fire up to 1,000 rounds per minute with an effective range of up to 4,000 meters makes it a significant addition to Ukraine’s defense arsenal.
Germany has provided two Skynex systems to Ukraine as part of a broader military aid package that includes ammunition and other air defense assets. The Skynex system uses programmable Ahead ammunition, enhancing its effectiveness against both conventional and emerging threats. This donation is part of ongoing efforts by Germany to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of relentless Russian attacks.
The Skynex system is notable for its cost-efficiency. Intercepting a target with Skynex costs approximately 4,000 euros, significantly less than the 300,000 to 500,000 euros required for an IRIS-T missile. This economic advantage, combined with the system’s advanced technology, provides Ukraine with a robust and sustainable defense solution.
In a recent video, Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk highlighted the operational capabilities of the Skynex system. The footage showed Ukrainian pilots using both air-launched missiles and ground-based air defense systems to counter Russian attacks. Oleshchuk emphasized the ongoing threat from Russian aerial bombardments and the critical importance of advanced air defense systems in maintaining Ukraine’s airspace security.
Beyond Skynex, Ukraine has also received Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets, which are expected to be primarily used for air defense. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to modernize Ukraine’s military capabilities and enhance its ability to respond to continuous aerial threats from Russia.
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