Saudi Red Sands III: Rheinmetall Canada's Ultra-Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD)

In a demonstration of modern defense technology, Rheinmetall Canada unveiled its Ultra-Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) system during the multinational Red Sands III exercise in Saudi Arabia. Held in September 2024 at the Schamal-2 firing range, this collaborative event brought together experts from the U.S. Army Central Command and the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces to address emerging threats from uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS).

Key Highlights from Red Sands III

1. Innovative Counter-Drone Technology: Rheinmetall's SHORAD system successfully neutralized multiple drone types, including multi-rotor and fixed-wing UAVs from Groups 2 and 3.
2. Multi-Layered Defense Approach: Leveraging the advanced Fieldranger Multi remote weapon station, the system employed a dual Dillon Aero M134D Minigun setup, radar, electro-optics, and AI-driven target tracking.
3. Real-World Scenarios: The exercise included five high-stress scenarios simulating real-world drone threats. Rheinmetall’s system achieved first-pass success against all aerial targets.
4. Robust Performance Under Extreme Conditions: Despite temperatures exceeding 45°C, the system delivered uninterrupted performance, demonstrating resilience to environmental challenges such as heat, dust, and power fluctuations.

Advanced Features of Rheinmetall’s SHORAD System

Designed as the ultimate line of defense, Rheinmetall’s Ultra-SHORAD system excels in detecting, tracking, and neutralizing fast-moving, low-flying drones. With an engagement range of 50 to 700 meters, the system operates autonomously on the Mission Master XT unmanned ground system (UGS). Key components include:

• Fieldranger Multi: A remote weapon station equipped with dual Dillon Aero M134D Miniguns.
• AI-Driven Target Recognition: Advanced AI algorithms enable precise detection and tracking, even in low visibility conditions.
• Continuous Firing Capability: Ensures sustained defense against swarming drone threats.

Proven Success Across Varied Environments

Rheinmetall’s SHORAD system has demonstrated exceptional adaptability, proving effective in diverse conditions—from the high humidity and rain of Port Clinton, USA to the extreme desert heat of Saudi Arabia. Its robust AI-powered tracker ensures reliable performance even in challenging environments, identifying and classifying threats with unparalleled accuracy.

This success builds on Rheinmetall’s broader innovations, including its work on unmanned ground systems for defense. These systems are designed to enhance adaptability in multi-domain operations, showcasing the company's commitment to cutting-edge solutions (Learn more about this initiative).

Unmanned Ground Combat: Rheinmetall and DOK-ING Collaborate

German defense giant Rheinmetall AG and Croatian unmanned systems specialist DOK-ING have formalized a partnership to develop next-generation unmanned ground systems (UGS). The collaboration was sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding in Berlin on October 28, 2024.

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Cost-Effective Defense with Multi-Domain Applications

In addition to operational success, Rheinmetall’s system offers a cost-efficient solution for modern defense needs. The low cost-per-engagement makes it a sustainable choice for addressing the increasing prevalence of UAV threats. This advanced technology is designed for multi-domain operations, capable of countering threats both from the air and ground.

For example, Rheinmetall has demonstrated its expertise in counter-drone solutions through its development of advanced reconnaissance and defense systems in partnership with ICEYE. Notably, its work with SAR satellites has enhanced precision and situational awareness in modern defense strategies, underscoring its importance in this critical field (Explore the details).

Ukraine Gets SAR Recon From Rheinmetall and ICEYE

Rheinmetall and ICEYE join forces to provide Ukraine with advanced SAR satellite capabilities, enhancing real-time battlefield intelligence.

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Strategic Importance of Red Sands III

The Red Sands III exercise reflects growing collaboration between the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces and U.S. Army Central Command, emphasizing joint efforts to close capability gaps in air defense. Alain Tremblay, Vice-President of Business Development and Innovation at Rheinmetall Canada, stated: “We are proud to play a pivotal role in advancing readiness and innovation to combat emerging threats effectively.”

This aligns with broader NATO and allied initiatives to enhance interoperability and defense capabilities. An example of this is the development of counter-unmanned systems for maritime security, which aim to ensure comprehensive protection across all domains. These efforts highlight the increasing focus on safeguarding key operational environments against emerging threats (Learn more).

Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs): The Future of Naval Warfare

oday’s ASVs incorporate a range of cutting-edge propulsion systems, often blending diesel power with electric motors for extended operational ranges. Their sensor suites—featuring electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imaging, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and high-fidelity sonar arrays—enable comprehensive maritime domain awareness.

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Rheinmetall’s performance during Red Sands III highlighted the operational effectiveness of its SHORAD system in addressing modern UAV threats. The exercise demonstrated the system’s adaptability and precision, providing a practical solution to evolving challenges in counter-drone warfare for allied forces.

For more on Rheinmetall Canada’s cutting-edge defense technologies, visit Rheinmetall Official Site or explore the latest in counter-drone innovations at grosswald.org.