A mobile MSI-DS Terrahawk Paladin air-defense unit has been spotted in service with the Ukrainian army, mounted on a MAN HX truck chassis. The system, developed by the British company MSI-Defense Systems Ltd., is a refined version of a modular short-range platform designed to counter drones, helicopters, light aircraft and engage ground targets.

At its core is a remotely operated combat module equipped with a 30 mm cannon capable of firing armor-piercing and high-explosive rounds, including programmable ammunition intended to more effectively destroy unmanned aerial vehicles.

To detect and track targets, the Terrahawk Paladin combines a 360-degree radar with an electro-optical suite, allowing it to operate day and night and in poor visibility.

The United Kingdom funded the production of these systems back in October 2023 with the goal of supplying them to Ukraine.

While the appearance of the Terrahawk Paladin strengthens Ukraine’s counter-drone capabilities, analysts caution that its arrival will not significantly reshape the overall frontline situation, as the number of units transferred to Kiev remains limited.