Leonardo’s Hystrix Systems Bolster Italy’s Air Defense Against Drone Threats

Italy is enhancing its air defense capabilities with the integration of Leonardo’s Hystrix family of air defense and counter-unmanned aerial systems (ADS) into the Michelangelo Dome, a new multi-domain defense system. These systems are designed to address the growing threat of drones, loitering munitions, and other low-altitude aerial threats.

Michelangelo Dome: An Integrated Defense Architecture

The Michelangelo Dome, unveiled in late 2025, is a modular and scalable integrated defense system developed by Leonardo. It integrates sensors, effectors, and platforms across all operational domains through a distributed command-and-control network. The system aims to detect, track, and neutralize threats across air, missile, drone, and cyber domains, protecting critical infrastructure and national assets.

Hystrix 76 ADS: Long-Range Gun Layer

The Hystrix 76 ADS is a remotely operated turret utilizing a 76/62mm naval gun adapted for land-based operations. It serves as the long-range gun layer within the Michelangelo Dome architecture, capable of engaging targets at ranges exceeding 7 km, depending on ammunition and target type. The system can fire standard ammunition as well as guided precision munitions, including DART (Driven Ammunition Reduced Time of flight) rounds with the Strales guidance system, designed to intercept maneuvering missiles and unmanned aircraft.

The Hystrix 76 ADS is trailer-mounted and designed for easy integration, avoiding the necessitate for hull penetration. It boasts a rate of fire of 76 rounds per minute, with 76 ready-to-fire rounds, and an elevation range of -5º to +85º.

Hystrix 40 ADS: Mid-Range Counter-UAS System

Complementing the Hystrix 76, the Hystrix 40 ADS provides a mid-range engagement layer. Derived from the Marlin 40 naval mount, the Hystrix 40 ADS is designed to counter drones and other aerial threats. The Marlin 40 mount is currently in service with approximately 30 navies worldwide, with over 850 units deployed.

Addressing “Dead Zones”

The integration of the Hystrix 76 ADS into the Michelangelo Dome is specifically intended to address “dead zones” – vulnerabilities in the missile shield where low-flying and maneuvering threats might evade long-range interceptors. By providing a close-range, gun-based defense layer, Italy aims to create a more comprehensive and resilient air defense system.

Hystrix: A Naval Legacy Adapted for Land

Leonardo has positioned the Hystrix family as a cost-effective complement to missile-based air defense systems, offering sustained fire and rapid reaction capabilities. The systems represent an adaptation of Leonardo’s naval gun technologies for terrestrial air defense roles, reusing existing designs in static or relocatable land configurations.