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I am surprised that with modern relatively cheap radars, someone hasn't come up with a vehicle of similar performance. Any APC would suffice. Skynex seems a high tech (and expensive) option.
Well they are proposing/using the Skyranger / Skyshield / Skynex in multiple formats, both mobile and not:I am surprised that with modern relatively cheap radars, someone hasn't come up with a vehicle of similar performance. Any APC would suffice. Skynex seems a high tech (and expensive) option.
I was thinking of something like a M163 with a more modern radar/gun laying system.There is also the similar Skyranger 30 system that has a 30mm instead of 35mm cannon but also has missiles:
View attachment 841037
This too is able to be fitted to multiple platforms and also use multiple missile types.
View attachment 841038
| Feature/Aspect | Skynex | Gepard |
| Initial Cost | High (approx. €73 million per system, including multiple guns, radar, C2) | Lower (approx. $2 million per refurbished unit; original production cost was higher, but these are mostly second-hand acquisitions) |
| Cost per Intercept | Very low (approx. €4,000 per engagement with 35mm AHEAD rounds) | Very low (similar to Skynex when using 35mm rounds, especially AHEAD if upgraded) |
| Technology | State-of-the-art, modular, open architecture, designed for modern threats. | Older, 1970s design, but has proven highly adaptable and effective with modern ammunition and potential upgrades. |
| Mobility | Primarily fixed or semi-mobile (trailer-mounted versions exist for tactical deployment). | Highly mobile (tracked vehicle), designed to operate with ground forces. |
| Target Set | Drones, loitering munitions, cruise missiles, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, rockets, artillery, mortar (RAM). | Drones, loitering munitions, helicopters, low-flying fixed-wing aircraft, cruise missiles (especially with modern ammunition/upgrades). |
| Ammunition | Optimized for programmable AHEAD ammunition. | Uses 35mm rounds, can be upgraded to use AHEAD ammunition. |
| Availability | New production, readily available from Rheinmetall for new orders. | Limited availability of existing, refurbished units; new production is not ongoing. Ammunition production for older systems can be a challenge but is being restarted. |
| Maintenance | As a new system, likely benefits from modern diagnostics and potentially lower immediate maintenance needs, but long-term costs will depend on support agreements. | Older system, potentially higher maintenance for aging components, but well-understood and battle-proven; parts availability for an older platform can be a concern, although some production is being restarted. |
| Crewing | Designed for minimal operator requirements due to automation. | Requires trained crews; more traditional military vehicle operation. |
| Role/Application | Ideal for static or semi-static protection of critical infrastructure, high-value assets, and forward operating bases. | Excellent for mobile air defense of ground forces, convoys, and dynamic frontlines. Also effective for point defense. |
| Modularity/Upgrade | Highly modular, designed for future integration of new sensors and effectors. | Can be upgraded (e.g., AHEAD ammo, improved radar/electronics), but fundamental platform limitations remain. |
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View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygcLEnxSAzk
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With things like the AHEAD ammunition, I believe these 35mm systems are actually more efficient and effective against the threats being encountered:I was thinking of something like a M163 with a more modern radar/gun laying system.