Rheinmetall has secured a contract worth several hundred million euros to supply Belgium with 20 Skyranger 30 air defense systems.
Mounted on hooklift platforms, the systems are intended to provide stationary protection for Belgian territory and critical infrastructure.
The procurement is part of Brussels’ broader Blue Dome air defense program, which also includes NASAMS and other long- and short-range air defense capabilities.
Valued in the mid-three-digit million-euro range, the package includes associated logistics, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2028.
The agreement follows nearly 18 months of discussion, which began in June 2025. Belgium pursued the procurement in close consultation with the Netherlands, which has also ordered Skyranger 30 systems.
The hooklift configuration allows specialized trucks to transport the weapon modules and unload them at designated locations for stationary deployment.
Rheinmetall also expressed its willingness to expand cooperation with Belgian industry into other areas, including stationary and deployable counter-drone solutions.
“With the signing of the Skyranger contract, we are opening a new chapter in our 50-year partnership together with the Belgian armed forces,” Rheinmetall Air Defence CEO Roman Köhne said.
“The rapid technological evolution of airborne threats requires cutting-edge, fully integrated defence systems. The Skyranger 30 will make a decisive contribution to reliably safeguard Belgian territory and critical infrastructure.”
Skyranger 30
The Skyranger 30 is a short-range air defense system designed to engage drones, loitering munitions, helicopters, aircraft, and other aerial threats.
Its modular turret combines a 30mm Oerlikon KCE revolver cannon with radar and electro-optical sensors. The system can also be equipped with short-range air defense missiles.
The cannon has a nominal rate of fire of 1,250 rounds per minute and an effective range of up to 3 kilometers (1.86 miles). It fires programmable airburst ammunition that detonates at a preset point, increasing the chances of hitting aerial targets.
Its integrated sensors allow the system to build a localized air picture, helping crews detect, classify, and neutralize threats.
Rheinmetall is also developing directed-energy capabilities for the Skyranger 30. Its high-energy laser configuration has demonstrated 20-kilowatt output, with plans to increase power to 50 kilowatts and eventually achieve 100 kilowatts.
The technology is intended to provide a lower-cost option for engaging drones and other small aerial targets.