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Glider said:
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.
Click to expand...
Well they are proposing/using the Skyranger / Skyshield / Skynex in multiple formats, both mobile and not:

Skynex_AC_West.jpg


ted_with_the_Oerlikon_Skyranger_air_defence_system.jpg


GXxEFM-W8AATtBR-1.jpg


2022_12_09_Skynex.jpg
 
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I attempted to compare Skynex and Gepard with the help of AI (Gemini).
About cost per intercept: Gepard's ammunition (not AHEAD) rounds were in the range of EUR 450-550 in the first contracts for Ukraine in 2023-2024. The rounds per intercept ratio is classified information. RUMINT gives various estimates from 7 to 30 rounds per one Shahed-type drone.
Feature/AspectSkynexGepard
Initial CostHigh (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 InterceptVery low (approx. €4,000 per engagement with 35mm AHEAD rounds)Very low (similar to Skynex when using 35mm rounds, especially AHEAD if upgraded)
TechnologyState-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.
MobilityPrimarily fixed or semi-mobile (trailer-mounted versions exist for tactical deployment).Highly mobile (tracked vehicle), designed to operate with ground forces.
Target SetDrones, 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).
AmmunitionOptimized for programmable AHEAD ammunition.Uses 35mm rounds, can be upgraded to use AHEAD ammunition.
AvailabilityNew 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.
MaintenanceAs 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.
CrewingDesigned for minimal operator requirements due to automation.Requires trained crews; more traditional military vehicle operation.
Role/ApplicationIdeal 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/UpgradeHighly 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.
 
Glider said:
I was thinking of something like a M163 with a more modern radar/gun laying system.
Click to expand...
With things like the AHEAD ammunition, I believe these 35mm systems are actually more efficient and effective against the threats being encountered:

ahead-ammunition-for-cv9035dk-v0-7lq6cxiri39d1.png



Remember that while the M61 looks impressive, its high rate of fire also demands a lot off ammunition and thus resupply logistics.
 
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