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The SkyGuard System is by itself a stationary air defence radar system for detecting airborne vehicles, munitions and for Critical asset protection.
Originally built as as a target detection and fire control system to work in tandem with separate but connected Oerlikon GDF gun systems as well as VSHORD SAM systems, this specific version was adapted for fitting and use on top of a Volvo SM 868 chassis.
Skyguard-M sections
- Highlighted in Yellow: Volvo SM 868
- Highlighted in Blue: SkyGuard System
- Highlighted in Grey: Integrated Missile launchers
Details
The Rheinmetall Oerlikon SkyGuard System, developed by Contraves, is a modern and state of the art radar system capable of engaging a wide variety of air threats from both surface and aerial launches like low-flying aircraft and air/ground guided weapons.
The SkyGuard-M was equipped with Pulse-Doppler search and tracking radars from Oerlikon Contraves and an IR goniometer for measuring the entry phase of guided missiles. It also possesses an electro-optical Target tracking system.
The Search radar operates on IEEE S or X band (switching capability)(NATO E-F or I-lower J band) while the Track radar operates on a solid state IEEE Ku or X band (switching capability)(NATO I-J band).
This system was combined with a Guided missile launcher to form a fully integrated fire unit.
The SkyGuard-M is operated by a crew of three, a driver and two operators as can be seen in this glancing peek of the inside of the operators cabin.
The modern digital computer interface by Contraves is the nerve centre for the Skyguard-M and carries out all calculation tasks required.
The SkyGuard-M system and crew cabin, which has six weapons mounted on the sides, can be rotated freely in relation to the drivers cabin and vehicle chassis.
SkyGuard-M is designed in such a way that a large number of anti-aircraft guided weapons can be integrated. It also allows for engaging multiple targets simultaneously akin to Track While Scan techniques.
The radar can also be folded in
Missile options
Autocannon
One of the six missile launchers (here a Roland) can be replaced by a high-performance machine cannon of any type (single-tube or gatling). In the picture it is a six-barrelled 20mm Vulcan cannon, with the associated ammunition container attached underneath.
Other applied mountings of the Skyguard Radar system
The production Skyguard can and has been installed on a tracked M548 vehicle to which up to three guided missile launchers can be connected.
Web Sources
- Stationary air defence – Skyguard, Skyshield, X-TAR3D | Rheinmetall
- https://www.rheinmetall.com/Rheinmetall%20Group/brochure-download/Air-Defence/D1019e0222-Oerlikon-Skyguard-5-FCU.pdf
- Skyguard-Sparrow anti-aircraft missile system | Missilery.info
- https://www.solhem9.se/broschyrbank_skogsbruk/BM_Volvo_SM_868.pdf