MBDA Deutschland has tapped Greek firm Intracom Defense (IDE) to develop and produce the data link solution for its DEFENDAIR counter-drone missile system.
Under the signed contract, IDE will take on engineering development, prototyping, and integration support for various platforms.
The company will also establish a manufacturing line for future serial production of the complete communication suite for both the missile and ground segment.
Specific details about the data link, contract value, and delivery timeline were not disclosed.
“This contract with MBDA Deutschland and its strategic importance marks a significant milestone for IDE and further validates our position as a trusted European partner and provider of advanced electronics and communications technologies,” said Efstathios Karagiannis, IDE Chief Commercial Officer.
European Anti-Drone Interceptor
Formerly known as the Small Anti-Drone Missile (SADM), the DEFENDAIR missile was designed to intercept small- to medium-sized drone threats at ranges greater than 5 kilometers (3 miles).
MBDA describes it as a cost-effective solution, featuring a “maintenance-free configuration stowed in a protective container.”
It is undergoing integration with Rheinmetall’s Skyranger 30 short-range air-defense vehicle to complement the vehicle’s 30mm cannon and extend engagement range.
The German Armed Forces are expecting the solution to be delivered by 2030.
DEFENDAIR also showed its capability to pair with a high-energy laser weapon during the International Aerospace Exhibition in Berlin in June.
