Rheinmetall Advances C-UAS with Mission Master CXT Integration
Introduction of the Mission Master CXT
At the recent Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2025 exhibition, Rheinmetall unveiled its latest innovation: the integration of the Mission Master CXT unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) with the Oerlikon Skyranger 762 remote weapon station (RWS). This system is designed to enhance counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) capabilities, reflecting the evolving demands of modern warfare.
Operational Features and Capabilities
The integrated Mission Master CXT Skyranger 762 is termed ultra short-range air defense (U-SHORAD) by Rheinmetall. Key operational features include:
- Minimal Crew Requirement: The system can be operated efficiently by a single operator, significantly reducing the need for extensive personnel training.
- Advanced Detection Systems: It incorporates a Teledyne FLIR radar alongside all-weather sensors, greatly enhancing its situational awareness.
- Armament: The platform is equipped with M134D Gatling machine guns, chambered for 7.62×51 mm NATO ammunition, making it effective against a variety of aerial threats.
Targeting Evolving Threats
Rheinmetall emphasizes that the Skyranger 762 is particularly adept at intercepting small unmanned aerial systems (UAS), specifically those commonly used in contemporary conflicts, such as first-person view (FPV) drones prevalent in Ukrainian combat scenarios. This capability aligns with NATO’s designation of Class I UAS threats, enhancing its operational relevance.
Integration and Interoperability
A standout feature of the Skymaster command-and-control (C2) suite is its ability to interface with other air defense systems, such as the Skyranger, Skynex, and Skyspotter platforms. This interoperability is crucial for coordinated defense strategies across multiple domains.
Logistical Capacity and Support Role
The Mission Master CXT boasts a substantial payload capacity of 1,000 kg, allowing it to fulfill multiple roles. In addition to its C-UAS capabilities, the system can also provide fire support in ground operations, making it a versatile asset on the battlefield.
Field Testing and Future Developments
During a discussion at DSEI 2025, Rheinmetall project management specialist Eric Diniz confirmed ongoing capability tests for the broader Mission Master platform. These evaluations are currently taking place in a coastal area of Portugal, as part of NATO’s Exercise ‘REPMUS 25’ (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Unmanned Systems). Diniz noted that while another iteration of the Mission Master is set for testing with a U-SHORAD configuration in October 2024, DSEI 2025 marked the first public demonstration of its intermediary variant, the CXT, equipped with an air-defense system.
Conclusion
Rheinmetall’s enhancements to the Mission Master CXT highlight a strategic response to evolving aerial threats on the modern battlefield. The integration of effective air defense capabilities into UGVs not only optimizes ground operations but also reinforces broader national security objectives amid increasing reliance on UAS technology. As defense priorities shift, developments like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of military operations.
