Rheinmetall Has Not Delivered Skyranger 35 Systems to Ukraine as Promised (defence24.com)

• Rheinmetall promised 10 Skyranger 35 systems to Ukraine in June 2024.
• CEO Papperger announced accelerated delivery by end of 2025 at DSEI 2025, but contract signed October 2025.
• No deliveries have occurred as of July 2026 per Rheinmetall press release.
• Systems financed by EU member state using frozen Russian assets; produced by Rheinmetall Italia.
• The air defense system is crucial for countering drones and cruise missiles.

"Rheinmetall has failed to deliver the promised Skyranger 35 anti-aircraft systems on Leopard 1 chassis to Ukraine. In June 2024, the company announced a 10-unit delivery intended for 2026. CEO Armin Papperger in September 2025 pledged delivery by end of 2025, but the contract was only signed in October 2025. As of July 2026, no systems have been delivered according to a Rheinmetall press release. The systems are financed by an EU member state using frozen Russian assets, with production at Rheinmetall Italia in Rome. The delay leaves Ukraine without a key short-range air defense system against drones and missiles."