GDELS-Steyr Unveils Advanced Pandur Evo Variant with Skyranger 30 Turret

General Dynamics European Land Systems-Steyr (GDELS-Steyr) is set to introduce an impressive new variant of its Pandur 6x6 Evo wheeled armored vehicle at the AIRPOWER24 airshow in Zeltweg, Styria, on September 6th and 7th, 2024. This latest iteration of the Pandur Evo is equipped with the Skyranger 30 turret, a significant upgrade that further underscores the vehicle’s versatility and adaptability in modern military operations.

The Pandur Evo has been a cornerstone of the Austrian Armed Forces since its introduction as a personnel carrier in 2018. Its robust design and flexibility have made it a reliable asset across various mission profiles. Earlier this year, Austria commissioned an additional 225 Pandur vehicles in twelve different configurations, ranging from medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and command and control to anti-tank, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare roles. The Skyranger 30 variant, specifically tailored for short-range air defense (SHORAD), adds a crucial new dimension to the Pandur’s capabilities.

At the heart of this new variant is the unmanned Skyranger 30 turret. This advanced system is built on the proven Pandur platform, powered by a 455-horsepower engine that ensures the vehicle's mobility remains uncompromised, even with the added weight of the new turret. The Skyranger 30 is armed with a 30mm x 173 revolver cannon capable of firing airburst ammunition, which is highly effective against aerial threats such as drones and low-flying aircraft. Complementing the cannon are two Mistral guided missile launchers, providing the vehicle with potent air defense capabilities.

The Skyranger 30 turret is not just about firepower; it also boasts a sophisticated sensor suite. This includes a radar system and an electro-optical sensor package with TV and infrared cameras, alongside a laser rangefinder. These sensors work together to provide comprehensive surveillance and tracking capabilities, ensuring that the Pandur Evo can detect, track, and engage threats with high precision. The vehicle’s interior houses two control consoles for the weapon system, along with advanced fire control computers, allowing the crew to operate the turret with efficiency and accuracy.

One of the standout features of the Pandur Evo with the Skyranger 30 turret is its role in convoy protection. The vehicle is designed to shield infantry forces from a range of aerial threats, both manned and unmanned. This aligns with the Austrian Army’s “defend-the-defender” strategy, which emphasizes protecting troops as they carry out their missions. The vehicle’s modular design also means it can be adapted for other roles, making it a highly valuable asset on the battlefield.

The AIRPOWER24 airshow, Europe’s largest military airshow and the biggest event for the Austrian Armed Forces this year, serves as the perfect venue for showcasing the Pandur Evo with the Skyranger 30 turret. The event is expected to draw around 300,000 visitors and feature 200 civil and military aircraft from 20 countries. In addition to the aerial displays, the event will also include demonstrations of the Army’s land capabilities and an international technology and business exhibition.

The introduction of the Pandur Evo with the Skyranger 30 turret represents a significant advancement in mobile air defense technology. By integrating cutting-edge firepower, advanced sensors, and the proven mobility of the Pandur platform, GDELS-Steyr has created a vehicle that is well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern warfare. This new variant is not just a testament to the modularity of the Pandur Evo but also a clear indication of the future direction of military vehicle development.