The Netherlands has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its protection against modern aerial threats by signing a contract to acquire new Skyranger air-defense systems.
The agreement, signed in Soesterberg by the Dutch Ministry of Defence, aims to significantly increase the country’s ability to counter drones, one of the main threat vectors on today’s battlefield.
According to the Ministry, the contract covers the delivery of Skyranger 30 units, including mobile combat platforms, stationary systems, and advanced simulators for military training. The schedule calls for all systems to be delivered to the Army by 2029, a timeline considered accelerated for a program of this scale.
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Production will be divided between two Rheinmetall facilities: the unit in Switzerland, responsible for building the first three prototypes, and the company’s Dutch subsidiary, which will take on a central role in producing and assembling the remaining systems — a move that strengthens the participation of the Dutch defense industry in the project.
System designed to combat drones weighing up to 600 kg
Specifically engineered to counter small and medium-sized drones, the Skyranger can neutralize targets of up to 600 kg at distances of up to 5 km. The system uses 30 mm ammunition, ensuring a fast and effective response against unmanned aerial vehicles that may threaten troops, strategic infrastructure, or urban areas.
The new systems will be deployed to protect critical facilities, including the Port of Rotterdam, military bases, and combat units across Dutch territory.
Source and images: Defensie.nl. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
