Rheinmetall Demonstrates Advanced Counter-Drone Capabilities in Finland
Skyspotter multi-sensor system showcases effective detection, tracking, and engagement of small unmanned aerial threats during GBAD Demo Days.
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Rheinmetall has successfully demonstrated its counter–small unmanned aerial system (c-sUAS) capabilities during the Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) Demo Days at the Lohtaja firing range in Finland. Rheinmetall Air Defence AG participated at the invitation of the Inspector of Air Defence of the Finnish Armed Forces.
Despite challenging weather conditions in a remote forest environment, Rheinmetall delivered a powerful and highly professional demonstration. The event showcased the detection and engagement of a wide spectrum of aerial threats, ranging from jet-powered drones to small quadcopters. Seamless cooperation with the event organiser XD Solutions and the Finnish Armed Forces highlighted the operational maturity and readiness of Rheinmetall’s technologies.
The demonstration focused on the detection, classification, and tracking of diverse drone types operating in different airspaces and at varying speeds.
Skyspotter at the Core of the Demonstration
Central to the presentation was Skyspotter, Rheinmetall’s multi-sensor early-warning and reconnaissance system designed to detect, classify, and track airborne threats. Skyspotter is intended to protect critical infrastructure and secure large areas against drone attacks. Its open-system architecture allows the integration of various sensors and effectors tailored to evolving threat scenarios.
In cooperation with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH, Rheinmetall presented a rapidly deployable Skyspotter configuration mounted on a Rheinmetall HX truck, demonstrating the flexibility of the system architecture and the Group’s vehicle integration expertise.
Integrated System-of-Systems Approach
Rheinmetall showcased a fully integrated solution combining:
- The Skyspotter system
- Multiple distributed Passive Emitter Locator sensors
- A rapidly deployable, specialised command-and-control (C2) shelter
This configuration enables effective command and control at a safe distance from active components, significantly enhancing operator protection and operational resilience.
Skyspotter can be integrated with a range of effectors, including directional jammers, interceptor drones, and the Revolver Gun 30mm, currently in the conceptual phase. The system employs programmable KETF ammunition (Kinetic Energy Time Fuze), which neutralises targets purely through kinetic energy impact.
Partnership and Operational Readiness
“The GBAD Demo Days 2025 clearly demonstrated the importance of partnership-based cooperation in advancing modern air defence capabilities,” said Oliver Dürr, Head of Rheinmetall’s Electronic Solutions Division. “We thank the Finnish Armed Forces for the invitation and excellent collaboration, as well as our industry partners and our Finnish partner Oy Telva. Their commitment and expertise were instrumental in successfully demonstrating our systems under realistic operational conditions.”
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