The Dutch Ministry of Defence is adding the newest air defense systems, the Skyrangers, to its inventory in order to counter drone attacks, which are one of the greatest threats of our time. With the signed agreement, the country will maximize its capacity to protect its critical infrastructure and combat units.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence has signed a contract for new air defense systems that will provide the ability to defend itself against the drone threat at the highest level of intensity. This contract, signed in Soesterberg, has officially initiated the procurement process for the Skyranger systems.
Skyranger: Short-Range Drone Killer
The Skyranger system has been developed to neutralize drones weighing up to 600 kilograms at very short distances (up to approximately 5 kilometers) quickly and effectively. These new systems will serve as a strong addition to the Netherlands’ existing medium- and short-range air defenses.
The details of the procurement contract include the following:
• Delivery of Skyranger30 weapon platforms.
• Procurement of static Skyranger30 systems.
• Provision of simulators to be used for training.
The Skyranger systems will be used by the Dutch Armed Forces not only to protect combat units but also to ensure the security of critical national targets. These targets include the Port of Rotterdam and important military facilities.
A Significant Role for the Netherlands in Production
The procurement contract was signed with the company Rheinmetall Switzerland, which will build the first three prototypes. However, in the ongoing process, it is aimed for Rheinmetall’s Ede facilities in the Netherlands to play a major role in production and assembly.
All Skyranger systems are planned to be delivered to the Army no later than 2029.
Source: C4Defence / defensie.nl
