The trend in Europe of developing relatively low-cost anti-aircraft gun systems to counter cruise missiles and attack drones continues. Recently, a "realistic" image of the Hystrix 40 ADS self-propelled anti-aircraft gun system, manufactured by Leonardo (Italy), has emerged.
The photo, posted by observer @NichoConcu on social media platform X, indicates that the air defense system was spotted during testing. Further details have not yet been provided. The machine itself closely resembles previously leaked graphic images.
With this move, Italy has acquired another anti-UAV weapon, supplementing the expensive German Skynex systems, which are also currently being manufactured in Italy.
However, Leonardo's product is mobile rather than stationary like Skynex. This could give Leonardo a chance to receive orders from the Italian Army.
Furthermore, being a domestically produced product offers political advantages when placing orders, in addition to meeting the needs of the armed forces.
The Hystrix 40 ADS system was developed by Leonardo based on a fairly simple principle: Integrate an optical sighting station into the Marlin 40 naval gun turret with a 40mm cannon, and mount the entire system onto a truck, in this case an Iveco with an 8x8 configuration.
In this way, development can be accelerated by using mass-produced products, and manufacturing costs can even be simplified and reduced. Leonardo said research into this air defense system will begin in February 2026.
The Hystrix 40 ADS self-propelled anti-aircraft gun is known for its ability to fire 40mm rounds with programmable fuses or conventional fragmentation rounds. The rate of fire is 300 rounds per minute, and the ammunition load is only 72 rounds.
It should be added that a similar idea of converting naval guns into ground-based anti-aircraft guns was previously used on BAE Systems' Tridon Mk 2 system.
This system was ordered by Sweden and is part of a military aid package for Ukraine . It is expected to be delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces this year.
Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/y-tao-ra-he-thong-phong-khong-hystrix-40-ads-bang-cach-dua-phao-ham-len-bo-post794806.html
