Modernization of the Oerlikon GDF 103 anti-aircraft artillery systems in Romania
The Romanian Ministry of Defense has commissioned Rheinmetall to comprehensively modernize the country's Oerlikon GDF 103 anti-aircraft artillery systems, the company has announced. In what it says is the first major order in the European NATO country Romania with a contract value of 328 million euros, four modernized air defense systems are to be delivered and other services such as training, spare parts and service are to be provided. The first two systems are to be delivered within two years and the remaining two within three years.
According to Rheinmetall, each system includes an Oerlikon Skynex Control Node 1 fire control system, an X-TAR3D (X-Band Tactical Acquisition Radar 3D) search radar, six 35mm Oerlikon Twin Gun GDF009 TREO twin guns including an autoloader and two Heavy-duty special trucks to transport the fire control system and the search radar.
Rheinmetall understands the Skynex air defense solution to be a performance-enhanced Oerlikon anti-aircraft artillery system that is suitable as a modular and flexible, ground-based air defense system for the protection of stationary objects and systems in the short and immediate range. It is state-of-the-art and capable of engaging up to four targets simultaneously at very short range, including ground targets.
Cannon-based anti-aircraft solutions from the Skynex product family are particularly suitable for close-range protection where guided missiles cannot be effective, as Rheinmetall writes. The Oerlikon rapid-fire guns serve as effectors and can operate at a rate of up to 1,100 rounds/minute up to 4,000 meters. In Ukraine, even outdated anti-aircraft gun systems such as the 35mm Gepard anti-aircraft tanks could have achieved success - especially cruise missiles and drones.
With Skynex, on the other hand, there is a generational leap in sensor technology and in the possibility of networked use of several tactical units as well as integration into a higher-level command system. A unique feature of the weapon's effectiveness is the use of time-programmable 35mm Ahead ammunition, which was developed by Rheinmetall and enables maximum effectiveness against small and fast targets.
“With this first extensive order from the Romanian government, we are strengthening our footprint in Central Europe. It underlines Rheinmetall's leading role as a systems provider for ground-based air defense. We are pleased to be able to further strengthen the defense capability of the EU and NATO on the eastern flank with this order,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
Editorial staff / gwh
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