Italy orders Skynex air defence system – with an option for three more
The delivery of the first system is scheduled to be completed during Q2 2026. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
Skynex systems are designed to counter threats from missiles, artillery and mortars, as well as drones and loitering munitions.
Italy has ordered a Skynex air defence system, consisting of a sensor and tracking unit for air surveillance, a command-and-control (C2) station and four 35mm firing units, for €73 million (US$75 million). It also has a €204 million option for another three systems.
The first system is expected to be delivered in Q2 2026 and the three options could be exercised in 2027. The contract includes ammunition, training and maintenance services as well as spare parts.
Rheinmetall notes that Italy is the first NATO Member State to opt for Rheinmetall’s Skynex technology including the Mk3 35mm gun, but fellow NATO member Romania also recently opted for Skynex, though with 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 said.
The order from Italy is seen by the company as an important step as it eyes other major programmes in the country.
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 requirement and the KF41 Lynx armoured infantry combat system.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum]()
Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum
As Germany prepares its €25 billion order under the Arminius framework – the biggest Boxer procurement to date – the platform could become an increasingly powerful contender in European competitions.
-
![Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028]()
Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028
The next stage of the Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) programme, dubbed iMUGS2, was launched in November 2025. Three major demonstrations are planned before the end of 2028.
-
![British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward]()
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.
-
![Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows]()
Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows
The procurement and planned procurement of articulated tracked all-terrain vehicles is being driven by a need to replace older platforms and an acknowledgement of a capability gap for Arctic regions.
-
![Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier]()
Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier
A move, launched in May, could lead to a second supplier for the US Marines Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle requirement. Meanwhile, Wisconsin elected representatives have been pushing for necessary funding to be included in the FY27 budget.
