- Skyshield
Skyshield is a
modular , light weight,short range air defense (SHORAD) system developed by theSwiss corporation Oerlikon Contraves (now a subsidiary ofRheinmetall ofGermany ). The successor to the Skyguard defense system, Skyshield is intended to rapidly acquire and destroy threateningaircraft andmissiles .The weapons system itself consists of two 35 mm (1.38 inch) Revolver Cannons with a rate of fire of 1,000 rounds per minute, a Fire Control System made up of a sensor unit and a detached command post. The Skyshield can also use up to two
surface-to-air missile 8-cell modules for an expanded air defense capability. The Skyshield is designed for traditional anti-aircraft roles in addition to defense against missiles (seeAnti-ballistic missile ).The Skyshield is easily deployed by trucks and other transportation systems. The
fire control system (FCS) uses anX-band search and tracking radar, and another unit for radar/TV and/or Laser/FLIR precision tracking. Thecommand post can be placed up to 500 meters from the fire control unit (FCU). The Skyshield system can also be networked with other air defense systems for wider and more effective air coverage, expanding its roles from point defense to area defense.External links
* [http://www.rheinmetall-detec.com/index.php?lang=3&fid=1551&action=pd The Oerlikon website]
* [http://www.oerlikoncontraves.it/Difesa/eng/Skyshield.htm The Oerlikon Contraves website]
* [http://www.deagel.com/pandora/skyshield-35_pm00391001.aspx Deagel.com-Guide to world military aircraft]
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.