Rheinmetall delivers Skyranger air defense systems to Ukraine on schedule

Rheinmetall is sticking to the schedule for supplying the Armed Forces of Ukraine with self-propelled Skyranger 35 air defense systems.

Armin Papperger, CEO of the German defense company Rheinmetall, stated this in an interview with Ukrinform.

"Rheinmetall delivers the Skyranger on the Leopard 1 platform within the contractually agreed timeframe," Papperger assured, adding that for security reasons he would not disclose any additional details.

Part of the German manufacturer's strategy is to build a local defense ecosystem and create local added value in the countries where Rheinmetall operates, the company head said.

He also noted that Skyranger is part of Ukraine's air defense system and is becoming increasingly widespread in Europe as well.

The company's stationary and mobile air defense solutions, Skynex and Skyranger, which are also supplied by the German group, are likewise being successfully used in Ukraine.

Papperger also noted that since 2023 Rheinmetall has been supporting Ukraine's defense efforts by providing state-of-the-art aerial reconnaissance systems.

In addition, the company has delivered a large quantity of 35 mm ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank, which is used to counter drones.

Rheinmetall's portfolio includes various types of loitering munitions, Papperger recalled.

As reported earlier, the first self-propelled Skyranger 35 air defense system on the chassis of the Leopard 1 main battle tank was to be delivered to Ukraine at the end of last year.

Photo: dpa