EDGE entity HALCON has partnered with Rheinmetall Air Defence in Switzerland to develop and qualify the advanced Oerlikon Multi Sensor Unit (MSU).
The MSU is part of the Oerlikon Skynex Air Defence System, which includes HALCON’s SKYKNIGHT counter rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM) missile system. It also features a 4D active electronically scanned array search radar, covering 360° and is capable of automatically classifying detected targets and handing the generated tracks over to the most suitable gun or missile launcher autonomously or by the push of a button.
Hamad Al Marar, President of Missiles & Weapons, EDGE, said: “Adequate air defense needs an encompassing, multi-layered approach. Rheinmetall Air Defence, an international leader in the development of air defense systems, thoroughly understands this approach and it is reflected in the sophisticated Skynex SKYKNIGHT Air Defence System. HALCON takes an active involvement in the systems development, having designed the SKYKNIGHT Missile and Missile Launcher Unit, providing a critical layer of protection against saturation attacks.
“We are proud to be taking the next step in our partnership with Rheinmetall Air Defence, as the development of the MSU will be another notable contribution from HALCON. Signing this contract marks an important milestone as we continue to push the boundaries in the air defense domain and find new ways to safeguard our skies.”
Marco Parisi, Sales Director at Rheinmetall Air Defence, added: “Rheinmetall Air Defence is excited to collaborate with HALCON for the development of this state-of-the-art sensor system. It shows both companies’ commitment to providing the UAE with leading edge Air Defence Systems. The Oerlikon Skynex Air Defence System paired with HALCON’s SkyKnight Missile is the ideal solution for the protection of UAE’s most vital infrastructure.”
Development and qualification of the MSU will take place in Switzerland. Under a future contract, it will be initially produced in Switzerland and Italy, thereafter localized to enable production in the UAE.
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