In what would represent a new reinforcement for Ukraine’s air defense network, Italy is reportedly considering the transfer of SIDAM 25 anti-aircraft systems to help counter short-range threats. The platform is mounted on an M113 armored vehicle. According to open-source intelligence (OSINT) reports, the number of systems potentially transferred could be sufficient to equip up to three batteries, although it remains unclear how many units would ultimately be delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
As reported by Ukrainian media, Italy has previously sent M113 armored vehicles to Kyiv as part of military assistance packages. Those units, however, had been modified to serve solely as troop transport vehicles, without the anti-aircraft system installed. This has sparked speculation as to whether the Italian government intends to transfer complete SIDAM 25 systems or only the previously removed components.
It is worth recalling that Italy produced approximately 275 SIDAM 25 systems, with production beginning in the 1980s. Their service life within Italy was relatively brief, and a significant number—around 200 units, according to reports—were transferred to the Belgian Armed Forces. This leaves a considerably smaller number potentially available for transfer to Ukraine, especially when factoring in the earlier removal of components. Additionally, there are notable uncertainties regarding the current condition of the remaining systems given their age, an aspect not clarified by the sources that disclosed the development.
From a technical standpoint, each SIDAM 25 consists of an anti-aircraft turret equipped with four 25 mm Oerlikon KBA cannons mounted on the aforementioned M113 chassis. Each cannon can carry up to 150 rounds before requiring reloading, and the system features electro-optical sensors and a laser rangefinder to enhance targeting accuracy. However, it lacks an integrated radar for target detection, making it more suitable for point defense of key infrastructure or specific frontline positions rather than broader airspace coverage.
In Italy’s case, it should also be noted that these capabilities are currently being modernized through the acquisition of more advanced Skynex air defense systems supplied by Rheinmetall, which will be operated by the Italian Army. The Skynex platform is equipped with a 35 mm Revolver Mk.3 cannon capable of firing up to 1,000 rounds per minute and engaging targets at distances of up to 4 kilometers. As previously reported, it is designed to operate in conjunction with Rheinmetall’s XTAR 3D radars, enabling threat detection at ranges of up to 50 kilometers.
Finally, returning to Ukraine, it is important to highlight that the SIDAM 25 would not be the only short-range air defense system expected in the near future. Sweden and Denmark have already announced plans to donate new Tridon Mk2 air defense systems, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian drone attacks, with enough units to equip a battalion. The BAE Systems-manufactured platform uses a 40 mm cannon with a range of approximately 12 kilometers and can be mounted on the back of a truck to enhance mobility.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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