Italy’s military giant Leonardo rolls out new air defence technology

On February 2, 2026, Italian defence company Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix family of land-based air defence and counter-drone gun systems, adapting its proven naval 76 mm and 40 mm technologies for ground use.

The new systems, Hystrix 76 ADS and Hystrix 40 ADS, are designed for fixed or relocatable deployment under centralized command and control and will operate within Leonardo’s Michelangelo Dome integrated air defence architecture.

Michelangelo Dome links sensors, command elements, and effectors in a modular and scalable layered system. Within this structure, the 76 mm guns form a longer-range engagement layer, while the 40 mm systems provide mid-range defence against drones, loitering munitions, and low-altitude aerial threats.

The Hystrix 76 ADS is based on Leonardo’s 76/62 naval gun in a SovraPonte configuration adapted for land use. The system is mounted on trailers or flatbeds and operated remotely via data links from a command post. It offers full 360-degree traverse, elevation from -5 to +85 degrees, and uses dual-feed magazines carrying 72 rounds. Supported ammunition includes programmable high-explosive rounds, guided DART munitions, and Vulcano variants, some with advanced seekers under development. Leonardo said the system has demonstrated effectiveness against drones, including swarm targets.

A heavier version weighs about 7,000 kg, while a lighter Hystrix 76 ADS Light is under development for vehicle mounting, with reduced weight, lower rate of fire, and smaller ammunition capacity. Prototypes and trials of the heavier version are planned before the end of the year.

The mid-layer Hystrix 40 ADS is derived from the Marlin 40 naval mount, widely used by global navies. The land version features autonomous electro-optical sensors for detection, tracking, and engagement, and is capable of high-speed targeting with full 360-degree coverage and elevation from -20 to +85 degrees. It carries 72 ready rounds and fires at up to 300 rounds per minute.

Its sensor suite includes thermal and day cameras and a laser rangefinder, optimized for counter-drone missions. Ammunition options include programmable airburst and proximity-fused rounds, and Leonardo is exploring integration of short-range missiles to extend engagement range. A prototype of Hystrix 40 ADS is also expected before the end of the year.

By Tamilla Hasanova