General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) and the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) have finalized a contract amendment for the development and production of the Danish Army’s first mobile air defense firing units. These units will integrate the advanced Rheinmetall Skyranger 30 turret system onto the PIRANHA 8×8 wheeled armored vehicle, creating a cutting-edge solution for short-range air defense. The agreement highlights Denmark’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities in line with NATO’s defense objectives. Although the selection of a missile for the Skyranger 30 system is still ongoing, the project underscores Denmark’s strategic focus on maintaining robust and interoperable air defense capabilities. As the Danish Army progresses with this program, the Skyranger 30 on the PIRANHA V platform promises to enhance the brigade-level operations and reinforce Denmark’s position as a capable NATO ally.
The Skyranger 30 turret, developed by Rheinmetall Air Defence AG, is a state-of-the-art short-range air defense (SHORAD) solution. First unveiled in March 2021, it is designed to counter a variety of aerial threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, drones, loitering munitions, and cruise missiles. The system combines high mobility, networked operations capability, and potent firepower, making it an ideal fit for modern battlefield requirements. The turret is armed with a 30 mm KCE cannon, a modified derivative of the Oerlikon KCA cannon, originally used on the Saab 37 Viggen fighter jet. This high-velocity gun achieves a rate of fire of 1,250 rounds per minute, providing effective engagement up to 3 km. Its ammunition includes airburst projectiles, such as the PMC308 and the more advanced PMC455 under development, which maximize lethality against aerial targets.
In addition to the cannon, the Skyranger 30 integrates anti-aircraft missiles, offering a layered defensive capability. The contract includes 16 Skyranger 30 turrets, with the initial production of four units expected by late 2026. Serial production will follow, delivering three batches of four turrets during 2027 and 2028. The system is designed to protect land forces, including command centers and combat units, while also supporting layered air defense frameworks in coordination with other NATO systems. The new air defense capability ensures Denmark’s compliance with NATO’s Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) requirements and strengthens the Danish Army’s ability to counter evolving aerial threats. While the specific cost of the Skyranger system remains confidential, it represents a critical investment in Denmark’s defense infrastructure.
The PIRANHA V, developed by General Dynamics European Land Systems – Mowag, serves as the chassis for Denmark’s Skyranger 30 systems. The Piranha V infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) is the fifth generation variant of the Mowag Piranha family of vehicles. It was designed by General Dynamics European Land Systems – Mowag GmbH. The first prototype was completed in 2008. It was first introduced during the Eurosatory exhibition in 2010. This fifth-generation armored vehicle has proven its versatility and reliability, with previous variants already in service with the Danish Army across multiple configurations, including infantry, command, and ambulance roles. Denmark’s PIRANHA V fleet was procured in 2015 as part of a program to replace the aging M113 armored personnel carriers. Integration of the Skyranger 30 system will be carried out by the Danish company Terma A/S, leveraging its expertise in defense system integration.
