Rome strengthens Ukraine's air shield: What to know about SIDAM-25 systems
Illustrative photo: mobile air defense brigade (Getty Images)
Italy is preparing a "surprise" for the Ukrainian Armed Forces that could prove crucial in the fight against Russian kamikaze drones. Instead of standard armored personnel carriers, Ukraine may receive full-fledged SIDAM-25 air defense systems, according to Defense Express.
Also read: Ukraine running low on anti-ballistic missiles, Defense Minister unveils air defense boost plan
Previously, SIDAM-25 systems were supplied only in the form of converted M113 armored personnel carriers. Now, however, the discussion concerns the delivery of full-scale air defense systems, sufficient to equip approximately three batteries, which would significantly enhance the protection of Ukraine's skies against Shahed drones.
The reported reinforcement of Ukraine's air defenses became known from a post by military analyst A-129 Mangusta (@NichoConcu) on the X platform. He is known for accurate forecasts regarding the supply of Italian equipment, including Centauro B1 wheeled tanks.
— A-129 Mangusta (@NichoConcu) February 27, 2026
Another development in terms of aid I’m happy to share, Italy is sending to Ukraine the SIDAM-25 anti aircraft platform. This info coming from the same source who revealed that the B1 Centauro was being sent. No idea how many specifically, but enough for 3 batteries. pic.twitter.com/UrC4BQsDkR
Previous deliveries of SIDAM-25 systems to Ukraine were limited to decommissioned M113 armored personnel carrier chassis without weapons, whereas the new batch includes the actual combat guns.
The SIDAM-25 is mounted on the M113 base chassis and features a turret armed with four 25 mm Oerlikon KBA cannons, each with an ammunition load of 150 rounds. The system does not have its own radar and relies on optoelectronic sensors and a laser rangefinder for targeting.
Since 1987, a total of 275 SIDAM-25 guns have been produced, more than 200 of which were sold to Belgium. However, most were never put into service and remain in storage with private companies. Italy currently has around 68 units that could potentially be transferred to Ukraine.
The main challenge is the condition of the equipment after long-term storage: targeting systems and other components may require complex refurbishment due to a lack of spare parts. At the same time, receiving fully operational SIDAM-25 units would provide Ukraine with mobile air defense batteries specialized in destroying Russian kamikaze drones, representing a significant boost to the country’s defenses.
Earlier, Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated that Ukraine critically lacks PAC-3 missiles for air defense to protect against Russian ballistic threats.
Previously, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also said that a large part of Ukraine’s territory remains without air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles.
