MBDA unveils DefendAir: A new era in drone defence

As reported by the portal Hartpunkt, MBDA Deutschland, which specialises in the production of guided missiles, has announced the introduction of a new missile into their portfolio designed for drone defence. The new DefendAir missile is largely based on the miniature Enforcer missile already used by the Bundeswehr. Previously, this project was known as the Small Anti Drone Missile (SADM).

DefendAir is intended to be a cost-effective solution for combating drones, which is one of the producer's main goals. This missile was chosen as additional armament for the Skyranger 30 air defence systems ordered by the Bundeswehr. Originally, it was planned to use missiles from the FIM-92 Stinger systems in this role, but this idea was abandoned due to its complexity, weight, and cost.

According to plans, the DefendAir missile will be developed from 2025 to 2028, with its qualification expected by 2029. Production and deliveries are anticipated in 2030. A representative of the Bundeswehr Procurement Office (BAAINBw) announced that a contract for the development and purchase of DefendAir from MBDA is to be signed in the autumn of 2025.

Current plans include the use of a launcher on Skyranger 30 towers containing up to 12 missiles, although so far, launchers with nine missiles have been presented. The range of the missiles is estimated to be 5 to 6 kilometres, which provides twice the range offered by the 30 mm gun with programmable ammunition.

One could say that the German solution is intended to serve a role similar to those in competitive systems like Sky Warden, with cost-effective laser-guided missiles such as APKWS. Unfortunately, the guidance system used in DefendAir missiles remains unknown, but given its low-cost and mass production nature, it may be similar.