Germany has confirmed plans to develop and procure MBDA’s new counter-small-drone missile, which will be integrated into the Skyranger 30 short-range air defense system.
MBDA Germany has secured the contract to develop and deliver the Small Anti-Drone Missile (SADM), known as DefendAir.
The Bundestag’s Budget Committee previously approved around 490 million euros ($568 million) for the program, with more than two-thirds allocated to missile development and qualification. Series production is slated for 2029, followed by deliveries to the German Armed Forces beginning in 2030.
The effort reflects growing concerns about the threat posed by small drones to ground troops—an issue underscored by the conflict in Ukraine. It also aligns with Berlin’s broader plan to place a multibillion-euro order for up to 600 Skyranger systems, significantly expanding Germany’s short-range air defense capabilities.
Small Anti-Drone Missile (DefendAir)
The missile enhances the Skyranger’s 30mm KCE-ABM cannon, which fires programmable airburst rounds against drones, helicopters, and low-altitude aircraft. Rheinmetall, maker of the Skyranger, has already integrated a compatible launcher into the turret.
Depending on configuration, the launcher can hold between nine and twelve missiles. Armed with an advanced seeker and custom-designed warhead, DefendAir is built to counter Class 1 drones up to 150 kilograms (331 pounds), extending the Skyranger’s range from 2 to 6 kilometers (1.24 to 3.72 miles).
Together with the 30mm cannon, the missile package enables a single Skyranger system to defeat up to 30 drones in one engagement.
The SADM is derived from MBDA’s Enforcer lightweight shoulder-fired missile, reducing development risk and supporting rapid fielding.
Production will take place at MBDA’s Schrobenhausen facility, with about 90 percent of the value generated in Germany and some actuator components sourced from the UK.
