The Italian Army has signed a contract valued at $75.2 million with Rheinmetall to acquire the Skynex air defense system. Additionally, there are plans to purchase three more systems worth over $210 million. Rheinmetall expects to deliver the first system by the second quarter of 2026, with the possibility of contracting the optional systems by 2027. The agreement also includes ammunition, training, maintenance and spare parts.
Each Skynex system consists of a sensor and tracking unit, a command and control center, and four 35 mm firing units designed to counter missiles, mortars, artillery and drones. Italy is the first NATO member to adopt Skynex, which uses 35 mm Revolver Gun Mk3 cannons. These cannons have a firing rate of 1,000 rounds per minute and firing range of up to 4 kilometers. The Skynex system is also deployed in Romania and Ukraine.
In addition to air defense, Rheinmetall, in partnership with Leonardo, is pursuing contracts in Italy for combat vehicles, including the main battle tank and Lynx infantry fighting vehicle.
The two companies have established a joint venture called Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles, which will create a European manufacturing center for Italy and international customers. Earlier this month, the Italian Army announced that it would test a Lynx IFV unit from Rheinmetall and Leonardo to evaluate its mobility, armor, firepower and interoperability.