What Is StrikeShield APS? Rheinmetall’s Hard-Kill Active Protection System
StrikeShield is Rheinmetall’s hard-kill active protection system (APS). It intercepts and destroys incoming rockets, ATGMs and grenades in the air before they reach the vehicle. Designed for integration on Lynx KF41 and KF51 Panther, it positions Rheinmetall as a full-system provider: platform, armament, protection and UGV in a single family.
System Identity
| Developer | Rheinmetall |
| Type | Hard-Kill Active Protection System |
| Primary Platforms | Lynx KF41, KF51 Panther |
| Detection | Multi-mode radar (active) |
| Intercept | Counter-projectile interceptor |
| Response Time | Millisecond-range |
Hard-Kill vs Soft-Kill
Hard-kill systems (StrikeShield, TROPHY, IRON FIST) physically destroy incoming threats. Soft-kill systems (MUSS, MAST) jam guidance or create decoys. Hard-kill is effective against all projectile types including hyper-velocity penetrators; soft-kill works only against guided missiles but has a smaller electronic signature. Modern armoured vehicles increasingly combine both.
Competition with TROPHY
Rafael’s TROPHY is widely fielded on US Abrams and Israeli Merkava. StrikeShield positions itself as a more compact, platform-adaptable alternative for Rheinmetall’s vehicle family. NATO’s growing APS demand creates room for both.
Sources
- Rheinmetall — StrikeShield Product Page
- Jane’s Armour and Artillery — APS Comparison 2023
