Rheinmetall demonstrates ultra-short-range drone defence
At Red Sands III Exercise
A Rheinmetall system designed to combat drones at ultra-close range has proven effective during a joint exercise with the US Army Central Command and the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces.
The Red Sands III exercise, held in September 2024 at the Shamal 2 firing range in northeastern Saudi Arabia, focused on countering uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS).
The multinational exercise provided a challenging environment for testing C-UAS solutions, offering technology developers and military personnel a platform to collaborate in closing capability gaps. It followed successful qualification tests earlier in 2024 in the United States.
Rheinmetall’s ultra Short-Range Air Defence (SHORAD) system, which has an engagement range of 50 to 800 metres, was designed as the last line of defence against small, fast-moving drones. The Mission Master XT uncrewed ground system (UGS) is the platform carrier.
The system, developed by Rheinmetall Canada, includes the Fieldranger Multi remote-controlled weapon station, a twin Dillon Aero M134D minigun, radar, electronic optics, and an AI-based target acquisition and tracking system.
Despite extreme Arabian desert conditions, with temperatures reaching 45°C during the Red Sands III exercise, the system demonstrated exceptional performance. It successfully neutralised drones in all five test scenarios, including multi-rotor and fixed-wing UAVs. The system’s rapid readiness, resistance to weapon interference, and AI-driven tracker made it highly effective, even in poor visibility.
Rheinmetall’s ultra SHORAD system excelled operationally and proved to be a cost-efficient solution. Its low cost per engagement makes it a sustainable and adaptable solution for modern defence operations.
The success of the exercise in Saudi Arabia highlights Rheinmetall’s role in providing reliable, cutting-edge solutions to counter emerging drone threats, reinforcing its leadership in counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS).
Rheinmetall is a leading German arms manufacturer specialising in defence systems and technology. The company produces armoured vehicles, weapons, and ammunition. Known for innovation in military and civilian markets, Rheinmetall is a key player in the global defence industry and aspires to compete internationally.
Hero image: Rheinmetall’s ultra SHORAD system makes it a sustainable and adaptable solution for modern defence operations. Credit: Rheinmetall
