Oerlikon GDF#Combat history

The system uses twin autocannons, firing 35×228mm NATO-standard ammunition. It was originally designated 353 MK and is now designated as the KD series. The same KD series 35mm cannons are used in the Leopard 1 based Gepard and Type 74 tank based Type 87 SPAAG and Marksman self-propelled anti-aircraft guns (SPAAG). The system could be paired with the off-gun (remote) Super Fledermaus fire control radar, which in the late 1970s was upgraded to the Skyguard system. The weapons were aimed either directly, by way of an advanced sighting system, or automatically, by locking onto the target with radar. Early models carried 112 rounds ready to fire, and an additional 126 stored on the chassis as reloads. Later versions with automated reloading carry 280 rounds total. A typical engagement burst is 28 rounds.

In 1980 an upgraded model, the GDF-002 was produced, which featured an improved sight, and the ability to be directed by an off-gun digital control system. A few years later a third version of the system was being produced, the GDF-003, which was broadly similar to the GDF-002, but included some enhancements like self-lubricating weapons and integrated protective covers.

A self-propelled concept, the GDF-001 Escorter 35 existed.{{cite book|title=Jane's armour and artillery 1983-84|edition=fourth|author=Christopher F. Foss|isbn=9780710607812}}{{cite book|title=The Directory of the World's Weapons|publisher=Blitz Editions|year=1996|isbn=1-85605-348-2}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/gdf-do3.htm|title=Oerlikon GDF-DO3 35mm 'Escorter' SPAAG|website=www.globalsecurity.org}}

In 1985 a further upgraded model was produced, the GDF-005, which was introduced, featuring the Gunking 3D computer-controlled sight with an integrated laser range-finder and digital control system. The GDF-005 also introduced an automated ammunition-handling system, which eliminated the need for the two reloaders, reducing the crew from 3 to 1.

The guns are usually transported by a 5-tonne 6×6 truck.

File:FlAK85.JPG

Development of the KD series cannon began around 1952 soon after Oerlikon calculated that 35 mm was the optimum calibre for an anti-aircraft gun. The KD series cannons were a design adapted from the post-war 20 mm KAA 204 Gk cannon. Several designs were developed, including a water-cooled design, designated Mk 352, which was tested by the U.S. Navy.

The final design was the Mk 323, which was developed in two variants, a belt-fed version the KDA, and a linkless version the KDC, fed by seven-round clips. Both designs are gas-operated, with a propped-lock locking system.George M. Chinn, The Machine Gun, Volume V

File:Gepard 1a2 overview.jpg of the German Army]]

The Super Fledermaus fire control system was designed and built by the then separate Contraves company. It consists of a four-wheeled towed trailer with an E/F band pulse doppler search radar with a range of around 15 km and a pulse doppler tracking radar operating in the J band, also with a range of 15 km. It was also used as the fire control system on the Gepard SPAAG.

{{unreferenced section|date=June 2022}}

File:FLGer98 Skyguard.JPG

File:Skyguard-Sparrow Missile Launcher in Songshan Air Force Base Display.jpg

File:Skyguard System Set Display in Chengkungling Oct2011.jpg, Taiwan]]

The Skyguard is a fire control system developed by Contraves and introduced in the 1977 to replace the Contraves Super Fledermaus system in the Swiss Air Force.{{Cite web |title=Wayback Machine |url=https://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/disp_old_pdf.cfm?ARC_ID=875 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250125123352/https://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/disp_old_pdf.cfm?ARC_ID=875 |archive-date=2025-01-25 |access-date=2025-06-12 |website=www.forecastinternational.com}} It is produced by Oerlikon-Buehrle (now Rheinmetall Air Defence). Updated versions were fielded in 1975, 1995 and 2010. It's an all weather low to medium altitude (up to 3,000 m) air defence system with the maximum effective distance of 4,000 m.

The Skyguard fire control system performs air surveillance, target acquisition, calculation of the derivative-action values and control of the twin 35 mm guns or missiles. Pulse doppler search radar, pulse doppler tracking radar and co-axial television camera are mounted on the roof of the towed trailer. Skyguard is operated by four people. The radar is deployed quickly through the use of hydraulic systems for antenna erection. The trailer houses the crew of two and a small power generator.

A typical fire unit consists of two twin 35 mm gun platforms with a single Skyguard fire control radar. Skyguard systems can also incorporate an optional SAM module based on the GDF's mount and radar system but with the guns replaced by four missile canisters. It can be armed with either AIM-7 Sparrow, RIM-7 Sea Sparrow or Aspide missiles.

The Skyguard radar system was used in the German Air Force for surveillance of low-altitude flight zones. In Taiwanese service, the system includes the Sky Sentinel radar, one 35 mm Oerlikon twin gun and an AIM-7 Sparrow Missile Launcher. Greek service the Skyguard system with RIM-7M is known as the VELOS.{{cite web |title=VELOS |url=https://www.haf.gr/en/equipment/velos/ |website=haf.gr |publisher=Hellenic Air Force |access-date=18 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518173427/https://www.haf.gr/en/equipment/velos/ |archive-date=18 May 2019 |url-status=live }} In Spanish service, Toledo is a Skyguard system with Aspide launchers where the fire control unit has been replaced with Skydor from Navantia.

A total of 468 systems were built through 1994 and major users were Italy (84 systems), Spain (64 systems) and Pakistan (32 systems).

File:Militari romani in timpul tragerilor.jpg

:Designation:

:* HEI: High Explosive Incendiary (-T—Tracer)

:* SAPHEI: Semi-Armour Piercing High Explosive Incendiary

:* FAPDS: Frangible Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot

:* TP: Target Practice (-T—Tracer)

:* AHEAD: Anti-missile rounds, that fire "152 heavy tungsten metal sub-projectiles".

:* ATOM 35mm: Aselsan ATOM 35mm is a airburst round, that fire tungsten metal pellets as sub-projectiles. It is mainly designed to destroy cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, precision guided weapons, conventional and rotary-wing aircraft and various ground targets.{{cite web |url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/GOKDENIZ_CloseIn_Weapon_System_1178.pdf|title = GOKDENIZ|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}}

:**Specification:

:***Length of complete round : 387 mm

:***Fuze : Time-programmable base fuze with electronic selfdestruct function

:***Effective range : 4000 m

:***Maximum range : 12500 m

Norwegian Nammo, in addition to Oerlikon, supplies at least some variants of this ammunition.{{cite news|url= https://www.overtdefense.com/2022/04/26/germany-to-transfer-gepard-anti-air-systems-to-ukraine-but-switzerland-blocks-ammunition-transfer/ |title= Germany To Transfer Gepard Anti-Air Systems to Ukraine, But Switzerland Blocks Ammunition Transfer |website= overtdefense.com |first= Matthew |last= Moss |date= 26 April 2022 |access-date= 2 November 2022}}{{cite web| url= https://www.nammo.com/product/our-products/ammunition/medium-caliber-ammunition/35-mm-series/ |title= 35 mm-series |website= nammo.com |access-date= 2 November 2022}} Norwegian ammunition was supplied to Ukraine in 2022 for use in the GDF guns in its Flakpanzer Gepard anti-aircraft systems, but it was found not to be compatible, requiring modification.{{Cite news| url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/amp/2022/07/31/norway-delivered-gepard-spaag-35mm-shells-are-useless-in-ukraine/ |title= Norway-delivered Gepard SPAAG 35mm shells are useless in Ukraine |website= BulgarianMilitary.com |first= Boyko |last= Nikolov |date=31 July 2022 |access-date=1 November 2022}}

File:Japanese L90 or GDF-002 35 mm twin cannon.jpg

File:Oerlikon 35mm twin cannon.jpg]]

File:JGSDF type 87 Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun 02.jpg

File:Marksman SPAAG.jpg

File:Kalustoesittely itsenäisyyspäivä 2015 17 Leopard 2 Marksman.JPG

File:PZA Loara zdjecie 489 5980.jpg

File:Natanz nuclear.jpg]]

• GDF-001 / 2 ZLA/353 MK: XABA sight
• GDF-002: Introduced in 1980. Improved Ferranti sight and digital data bus. The gun has 112 rounds ready and 126 in reserve (238 rounds total)
• GDF-003: Minor enhancements including protective covers and automatic weapon lubrication.
• GDF-005: Introduced in 1985. Fitted with Gunking 3D computer-controlled sight with a laser range finder and digital fire control system. Integrated power supply and diagnostics. 280 rounds on the gun and an automatic re-loading system.
• GDF-006: GDF-001/002/003 upgraded with AHEAD system.
• GDF-007: GDF-005 upgraded with AHEAD system.
• GDF-009: Unveiled at IDEF 2015, held in May 2015 in Istanbul. To date, its exterior significantly changed, although the installation has retained the design of the original serial versions of the systems. Unlike other variants, this one relies on an internal power source. The GDF-009 model is based on a four-wheeled carriage, and is raised off the ground by three stabilisers when deployed in the firing position. It also features an automatic levelling system that can compensate for a maximum tilt angle of up to 7°. Mounted on the forward part of the carriage is the integrated battery, which functions as the gun's power supply unit and can be recharged from an external source if required.{{cite news |author= |title=New anti-aircraft gun Oerlikon GDF-009 from Rheinmetall |url= https://weaponews.com/news/11731-new-anti-aircraft-gun-oerlikon-gdf-009-from-rheinmetall.html|work=WeaponNews|location=Unknown |date=25 July 2017 |access-date=4 September 2019 }}
• AHEAD: An upgrade for the GDF series guns built around a special projectile which explodes at a pre-calculated point in front of the target, sending a cone of 152 tungsten sub-projectiles at the target. Used by Canada, Pakistan, Greece, Oman, Spain, Taiwan, and Chile (unconfirmed).
• MKE GDF-003B: Turkish version of 35 mm GDF series. The gun of the system manufactured under licence by Turkish company Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation.{{cite web |title=35 mm Twin Barrel Anti-Aircraft Gun: GDF-003B |url=https://www.mkek.gov.tr/en/product.aspx?id=52&source=Products&pid=1454 |website=www.mkek.gov.tr |access-date=26 July 2021 |archive-date=25 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725160235/https://www.mkek.gov.tr/en/product.aspx?id=52&source=Products&pid=1454 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url= https://www.ssb.gov.tr/urunkatalog/en/238/|title= GUNS and HOWITZERS: 35MM TWIN BARREL ANTI AIRCRAFT GUN|publisher= TURKISH DEFENCE INDUSTRY PRODUCT CATALOGUE|access-date= 8 July 2021|archive-date= 27 January 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200127143920/https://www.ssb.gov.tr/urunkatalog/en/238/|url-status= dead}}
• MKE/Aselsan GDF-003B Modernized: MKE GDF-003B system modernized by another Turkish company Aselsan. MKE made 35mm guns linked with an Aselsan made Fire and Command Control System. The system has similarities with Skyguard system. The Fire and Command Control System consists of Aselsan made 3D search radar, fire control radar, electro-optical (E/O) sensors and other electronics. Each weapons system can fire up to 1100 rpm (2 x 550rpm) to an effective range of 4 km.{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/en/capabilities/air-and-missile-defense-systems/self-propelled-and-air-burst-munition/modernization-of-35-mm-towed-air-defense-guns|title = Modernization of 35 mm Towed Air Defense Guns |publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/0a9edde5-0e87-442c-99cb-0b2a0c0352d8.pdf|title = Modernization of 35 mm Towed Air Defense Guns|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}} The upgradation enables the system to fire Aselsan ATOM 35mm airburst round which explodes at a pre-calculated point in front of the target, sending a cone of tungsten pellets at the target.{{cite web|url=https://aselsan.com.tr/en/capabilities/land-and-weapon-systems/smart-munition-and-active-protection-systems/atom-35mm-airburst-ammunition|title = ATOM 35mm Airburst Ammunition|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 21 July 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/ATOM_35_mm_Air_Burst_Ammunition_4236.pdf|title = ATOM|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 21 July 2021}} The gun can also fire HEI and TP-T ammunitions. The concept of ATOM 35mm air burst ammunition came up in order to increase the efficiency of the gun systems against modern targets including fixed/rotary wing aircraft, cruise missiles, air-to-ground missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles and other precision guided weapons. Aselsan Fire and Command Control system can also incorporate a low altitude air defense SAM along with 35 mm gun platform. Like the GDF-009 each gun platform equipped with the integrated battery, which functions as the gun's power supply unit and can be recharged from an external source if required.
• KORKUT: Turkish Self-propelled (SPAAG) variant designed by Aselsan. The system developed from modernized GDF-003B and based around the amphibious capable FNSS ACV-30. KDC-02 cannon of the system manufactured under licence by MKE.{{Cite news|url=http://savunmaveteknoloji.com/ilk-korkut-sistemi-teslim-edildi/|title=İlk "KORKUT" sistemi teslim edildi|newspaper=SVT {{!}} Savunma ve Teknoloji|access-date=26 July 2021| language= tr|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202000224/http://savunmaveteknoloji.com/ilk-korkut-sistemi-teslim-edildi/|archive-date=2 February 2017|url-status=dead}} Each Korkut system comprises a command-and-control vehicle and three weapons platform vehicles. The command-and-control vehicle has the 3D search radar with an effective radar range of 70 km. Each weapon platform vehicle carries enclosed twin 35 mm cannons, fire control radar and electro-optical (E/O) sensors.{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/en/capabilities/air-and-missile-defense-systems/self-propelled-and-air-burst-munition/korkut-self-propelled-air-defense-gun-system|title = KORKUT Self Propelled Air Defense Gun System |publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/KORKUT_SSA_7426.pdf|title = KORKUT SSA|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://www.aselsan.com.tr/KORKUT_KKA_7187.pdf|title = KORKUT KKA|publisher= Aselsan |access-date= 26 July 2021}}
• Aselsan GOKDENIZ: CIWS version of KORKUT. The system's primary purpose is to defend against sea skimming anti-ship missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and other precision guided weapons.{{cite web|url= https://www.ssb.gov.tr/urunkatalog/en/106/|title= WEAPONS and TURRETS for NAVAL PLATFORM: GOKDENIZ|publisher= TURKISH DEFENCE INDUSTRY PRODUCT CATALOGUE|access-date= 26 July 2021|archive-date= 22 November 2019|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191122030313/https://www.ssb.gov.tr/urunkatalog/en/106/|url-status= dead}}
• Gepard: Self-propelled (SPAAG) version of the system based around the Leopard 1.
• Marksman: Self-propelled version of the system based around the Marksman turret, which could be fitted on numerous tank chassis. The only model that went into production was a version based on the T-55AM chassis for Finland, seven systems of the ITPSV 90 Marksman were produced. After having been moved to reserve storage since 2010, the Marksman turrets had their electronics modernized and were transferred over to Leopard 2 chassis in 2015,{{cite web|title=Armeija ottaa vanhojen Marksman-vaunujen tykkitornit uuteen käyttöön|trans-title=Army takes old Marksman tank turrets to new use|language=fi|first=Jarmo|last=Huhtanen|url=https://www.hs.fi/kotimaa/art-2000002811544.html|url-access=subscription|access-date=14 April 2021|date=25 May 2015|website=Helsingin Sanomat|publisher=Sanoma Media Finland|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419013744/http://www.hs.fi/kotimaa/art-2000002811544.html|archive-date=19 April 2017}} creating the ITPSV Leopard 2 Marksman.{{cite web|url=http://puolustusvoimat.fi/wcm/a2748e00495d6be1a9e0a98833fba23b/Toimintanaytoksen_materiaalitiedot_5+8+2015.pdf?MOD=AJPERES|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151005155147/http://www.puolustusvoimat.fi/wcm/a2748e00495d6be1a9e0a98833fba23b/Toimintanaytoksen_materiaalitiedot_5+8+2015.pdf?MOD=AJPERES|title=Maavoimien liikkuvuuden ja tulivoiman roll out Panssariprikaatissa 5.8.2015 – Esiteltävä kalusto|trans-title=Army Mobility and Firepower roll out in Armoured Brigade, 5 August 2015 – Equipment Presentation|publisher=Finnish Defence Forces|language=fi|date=5 August 2015|archive-date=5 October 2015|access-date=14 April 2021}}
• Type 87: Japanese SPAAG using the system.
• PZA Loara: Polish SPAAG based on the PT-91 tank.
• Type 90 (PG99): Chinese licensed copy of GDF-002.{{cite web|title=Type 90 Twin-35mm Towed Anti-Aircraft Artillery|url=http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type90towed35mm.asp|publisher=sinodefence.com|access-date=24 April 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404070150/http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type90towed35mm.asp|archive-date=4 April 2013}} The PG99 is a towed anti-aircraft gun suitable for point and coastal air defence. It is usually deployed near military bases, airfields, tunnels, islands, and along the coast to defend Sea Land of Communication (SLOC), ports, bridges and other important assets.{{cite news|title=Wide range of defence solutions available from ChinaPoly Technologies Inc|url=http://www.janes.com/events/exhibitions/africa-aerospace-defence-2012/news/sept-20/Wide-range-of-defence-solutions-from-ChinaPoly.aspx|access-date=20 April 2013|date=20 September 2012|publisher=Jane's Information Group|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012062823/http://www.janes.com/events/exhibitions/africa-aerospace-defence-2012/news/sept-20/Wide-range-of-defence-solutions-from-ChinaPoly.aspx|archive-date=12 October 2012|url-status=live}}
• MAA-01: Myanmar's locally made variant using Chinese GDF guns.Similar to Type-90.{{cite web|url=http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php|title=SIPRI Trade Register|publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|access-date=18 June 2011|archive-date=14 April 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414022558/http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php|url-status=dead}}
• CS/SA1: Chinese upgrade of GDF-002.{{cite news|title=Pakistan Acquires Chinese Made Air Defence Artillery|url=http://www.kanwa.com/dnws/showpl.php?id=725|access-date=20 April 2013|date=28 March 2013|publisher=Kanwa Daily News|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203734/http://www.kanwa.com/dnws/showpl.php?id=725|archive-date=29 October 2013}} Mounted on the 6×6 SX2190 truck, the PG99 (CS/SA1) is a self-propelled variant of the Type 90 35 mm AA system, previously available only as a towed AA piece.{{cite web|last=Andrew|first=Martin|title=PLA Mechanised Infantry Division Air Defence Systems / PLA Point Defence Systems|date=16 March 2009|pages=1|url=http://www.ausairpower.net/APA-PLA-Div-ADS.html|access-date=20 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503214842/http://ausairpower.net/APA-PLA-Div-ADS.html|archive-date=3 May 2012|url-status=live}}
• Type 09 SPAAA: Self-propelled version of the system based around the Type 90. First appeared in 2015 China Victory Day Parade.
• Samavat: Iranian version of these guns with night vision sight and used with Skyguard & Super Fledermaus FC radars.
• Amoun: Egyptian version of Skyguard & Sparrow SAM.

File:35mmFlab.png

• {{ARG}}: 38 GDF-002 Army with Skyguard, 6 GDF-001 Air Force with Super Fledermaus FC radar.
• {{AUT}}: 74 GDF-005 Army, Air Force 18 GDF-005 with 37 Skyguard FC radar
• {{BHR}}: 12 GDF-005 units, used with Skyguard FC radar.
• {{BAN}}: 4-8 Oerlikon GDF-009 anti aircraft gun systems have been ordered with Skyguard 3 fire control radar.{{cite web| url=https://dgdp.gov.bd/dgdp/AP_TEN/s_doc/2615.pdf|title=Technical Specification and Other Requirements for Item SER No 1. Carts High Explosive Incendiary (HEI) for Radar Control Air Defence Gun System 35 mm Oerlikon GDF 009/Skyguard 3, QTY-1,000 NOS|publisher=DGDP|access-date=3 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190903175249/https://dgdp.gov.bd/dgdp/AP_TEN/s_doc/2615.pdf|archive-date=3 September 2019}}{{verify source|date=September 2019}} In 2019, the gun systems have been tested at Cox's Bazar.{{cite news |author= |title=Newly Addition in Bangladesh Army Orelikon Radar Controlled Gun Test Firing Held at Coxbazar|url=https://www.ispr.gov.bd/en/newly-addition-in-bangladesh-army-orelikon-radar-controlled-gun-test-firing-held-at-coxbazar/#pll_switcher|language=Bangla|work=ISPR |location=Bangladesh |date=13 October 2019 |access-date=14 October 2019}}{{Cite web|url=https://today.thefinancialexpress.com.bd/metro-news/oerlikon-radar-controlled-gun-1570990874|title=Oerlikon Radar Controlled Gun|last=Anti-Aircraft Gun|first=Oerlikon GDF 009|date=14 October 2019|website=The Financial Express|url-status=bot: unknown|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191017062929/https://today.thefinancialexpress.com.bd/metro-news/oerlikon-radar-controlled-gun-1570990874|archive-date=17 October 2019|access-date=17 October 2019}}
• {{BRA}}: 38 GDF-001 with updated Super Fledermaus and Brazilian made Skyguard FC radars. To be fitted with the Saber M60 radar.
• {{CMR}}: GDF-002 and Type-90 units{{cite web|last1=de Cherisey|first1=Erwan|title=New Cameroonian air-defence capabilities revealed|url=http://www.janes.com/article/62239/new-cameroonian-air-defence-capabilities-revealed|website=IHS Jane's 360|access-date=13 July 2016|location=Paris|language=en|date=13 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170614172912/http://www.janes.com/article/62239/new-cameroonian-air-defence-capabilities-revealed|archive-date=14 June 2017|url-status=dead}}
• {{CAN}}: 20 GDF-005 units and 10 Skyguard FC radars in stock for emergency
• {{CHI}}: 24 GDF-005/007 units, used with Skyguard FC radar.{{Cite web|url=http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5310/5591150698_a74555bdd4_b.jpg|title=GDF-007 FACH}}
• {{CHN}}: licensed copy of GDF-002 as the Type 90, 400 units with Skyguard FC radar[http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type90towed35mm.asp Type 90 Twin-35mm Towed Anti-Aircraft Artillery.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404070150/http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type90towed35mm.asp |date=4 April 2013 }} Retrieved on 1 August 2008.
• {{COL}}: 75 GDF-005 units in reserve
• {{CYP}}: 30 GDF-005 units used with Skyguard and Aspide SAM
• {{ECU}}: 30 GDF-003 units
• {{EGY}}: 72 Amoun units used with Skyguard and Sparrow SAM
• {{FIN}}: 16 units. Known as 35 ITK 88
• {{GER}}: On the Flugabwehrkanonenpanzer Gepard (self-propelled anti-aircraft gun), 4 Skyguard FC radars used to monitor low level flying.
• {{GRE}}: 24 GDF-002 units upgraded to GDF-006 AHEAD, 12 upgraded Skyguard FC radars, used with Sparrow SAM
• {{IRN}}: 92 GDF-002 units. Iran produces its own version called Samavat. Used with Skyguard & Super Fledermaus FC radars.
• {{INA}}: 8 GDF
• {{JPN}}: some 70 GDF-001 units, used with updated Super Fledermaus FC radars. Made under a joint venture with Japan Steel Works for the 35mm gun and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation for the rest of the system{{in lang|ja}} [http://rightwing.sakura.ne.jp/equipment/jgsdf/airartillery/35mm-l90/l90.html 35mm 2連装高射機関砲 L-90.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081205175953/http://rightwing.sakura.ne.jp/equipment/jgsdf/airartillery/35mm-l90/l90.html |date=5 December 2008 }} Retrieved on 1 August 2008. 52 On the Type 87 (self-propelled anti-aircraft gun)
• {{KOR}}: 36 GDF-003 units, used with Skyguard FC radar.
• {{KUW}}: 12 GDF-005 (Amoun) units, used with Skyguard and Sparrow SAM
• {{MYS}}: 28 GDF-005 units, used with Skyguard FC radar.
• {{MYA}}: unknown number of locally made MAA-01, (Type-90) in service.
• {{NGA}}: 16 GDF-002 units
• {{OMA}}: 10 GDF-005 units AHEAD modified, used with Skyguard FC radar.
• {{PAK}}: estimated 180 GDF-005 units, 60 units AHEAD modified, used with Skyguard FC radar.
• {{ROU}}: 43 Flugabwehrkanonenpanzer Gepard systems and 72 GDF-003 units
• {{SAU}}: 128 GDF-005 modified units. Used with Skyguard FC radars.
• {{SIN}}: 58 units : 34 GDF-001 and 24 GDF-002 units. Fire-control radar locally upgraded{{cite web|url=http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php|title=SIPRI arms transfer database|date=18 June 2011|publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|access-date=18 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414022558/http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php|archive-date=14 April 2010|url-status=live}}
• {{RSA}}: 102 GDF-002 (100 Mk1 GDF-002 units in 2004 were sold for $500 000) + 48 modified GDF-005 units. Upgrading to the Skyshield system, GDF-006 AHEAD and GDF-007 AHEAD standard by 2017. Some 169 Oerlikon GDF-00? were acquired by the SADF along with 75 Super Fledermaus FC radars.
• {{ESP}}: 92 GDF-007 upgraded from GDF-005 between 2003 and 2006. With 27 Skydor and 18 Skyguard FC radars.{{cite web|language=es|url=http://www.ejercito.mde.es/en/unidades/Madrid/cgmaaa/Organizacion/index.html |website=Spanish Minister of Defense official website|title=ANTI-ARCRAFT ARTILLERY COMMAND |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624021912/http://www.ejercito.mde.es/en/unidades/Madrid/cgmaaa/Organizacion/index.html |archive-date=24 June 2016|date=May 2008}}
• {{SUI}}: Some 24 GDF-005 modified units (from a total of 264 GDF-001/002 units) used with Skyguard FC Radar.
• {{TWN}}: 24 Skyguard "Sky Sentinel" fire control radars linked to some 50 GDF-003 35 mm twin guns. Upgraded to GDF-006 to fire AHEAD rounds since 2009.
• {{THA}}: 8 GDF-007, used with 4x Skyguard 3 FC radar units.
• {{TUR}}: 35 mm Oerlikon gun produced under licence by MKE.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkek.gov.tr/tr/Urunler.aspx?UretimYeriID=0&UrunID=94&AnaKategori=107&AltKategori=123&EnAltKategori=|title=MKEK - Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi Kurumu|website=www.mkek.gov.tr|access-date=23 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217072207/http://www.mkek.gov.tr/tr/Urunler.aspx?UretimYeriID=0&UrunID=94&AnaKategori=107&AltKategori=123&EnAltKategori=|archive-date=17 December 2014|url-status=live}} 120 GDF-003 units,{{cite web|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/tu-army-equipment.htm|title=Turkey - Major Army Equipment|first=John|last=Pike|website=www.globalsecurity.org|access-date=23 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202230511/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/tu-army-equipment.htm|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=live}} Turkish version known as MKE GDF-003B. Multiple gun systems upgraded to GDF-003B Modernized with Aselsan Fire and Command Control System by Aselsan.
• {{UKR}}: 30 on the Flugabwehrkanonenpanzer Gepard SPAAGs.
• {{UAE}}: 30 GDF-005 units
• {{UK}}: 15 GDF-002 35mm twin guns were captured during the Falklands War along with six Skyguard and one Super Fledermaus FC Radars. Currently four of these Skyguard fire control systems are being used to detect UK military aircraft exceeding flight restrictions over residential areas.{{citation |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200102/cmhansrd/vo020211/debtext/20211-05.htm |title=Skyguard |work=House of Commons Debates |publisher=Hansard |date= 11 February 2002 |at=31902 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180319151049/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200102/cmhansrd/vo020211/debtext/20211-05.htm |archive-date=19 March 2018 }}. GDF-002 guns now in storage and in a few military museums in the UK.

File:Gada-IvesonHarrier.jpg

1982: The system was widely used by the Armed Forces of Argentina during the Falklands War. The Skyguard radar system was employed by the 601 Antiaircraft Artillery Group and the Super Fledermaus by the 1st Group of the Argentine Air Force. This force shot down a Sea Harrier (XZ450) on 4 May 1982 at Goose Green, prompting British aircraft to operate beyond its range. An RAF Harrier (XZ988) was also shot down on 27 MayPook, page 109 and another, (XW919) was damaged by 35 mm splinters over Sapper Hill on 12 June.{{cite web |title=RAF Diaries, 12 June entry |url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/falklands/cr1206.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207072325/http://www.raf.mod.uk/falklands/cr1206.html |archive-date=7 February 2015 |website=Royal Air Force}}{{cite book |last=Rodríguez Mottino |first=Jorge |title=Malvinas: El Conflicto Bélico |publisher=Ediciones Argentas |year=2001 |page=91 |language=es}}

The system was used in a direct fire role during the Battle of Goose Green, killing two, wounding 11.{{cite web |title=Goose Green: The Argentinian Story |url=http://www.britains-smallwars.com/Falklands/David/Goosegreen.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029202548/http://www.britains-smallwars.com/Falklands/David/Goosegreen.htm |archive-date=29 October 2013 |author=David Aldea |website=British Small Wars}}{{cite book |last=Reynolds |first=David |year=2002 |title=Task Force: The Illustrated History of the Falklands War |publisher=Sutton |page=150 |isbn=0-7509-2845-X}} and at Wireless Ridge shortly before the Argentine surrender.Pook, page 162

The weapons were involved in two friendly fire incidents. On 1 May 1982, a GADA 601 battery shot down a combat-damaged Argentine Mirage III (I-019) near Stanley Airfield, killing its pilot, Captain Gustavo Cuerva.{{cite book |last=Rodríguez Mottino |first=Jorge |title=Malvinas: El Conflicto Bélico |publisher=Ediciones Argentas |year=2001 |page=170 |language=es}}{{cite web |title=El derribo del primer avión argentino en Malvinas |url=http://cronistaurbano.misionesonline.net/2009/08/06/el-derribo-del-primer-avion-argentino-en-malvinas/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723210539/http://cronistaurbano.misionesonline.net/2009/08/06/el-derribo-del-primer-avion-argentino-en-malvinas/ |archive-date=23 July 2011 |website=Misiones Online |language=es}} The second occurred on 24 May 1982, when a Douglas A-4 Skyhawk (C-244) entered a restricted zone over Goose Green and was shot down, killing the pilot, Lieutenant Gavazzi.{{cite web |title=Argentine aircraft losses – Naval-History.net |url=https://naval-history.net/F64-Falklands-Argentine_aircraft_lost.htm}}{{cite book |last=Fernández Reguera |first=José |title=La Guerra de las Malvinas |publisher=Ediciones de la UCA |year=1987 |page=572 |language=es}}

Skyguard radars were targeted by the RAF during Operation Black Buck on 31 May and 3 June. One radar was destroyed by Shrike missile shrapnel, killing four operators.

British forces captured 15 guns and six Skyguard units, later refurbished in "Operation Skyguard". BMARC restored the GDF-002 AA guns at Faldingworth, while Rheinmetall/Oerlikon refurbished four radars in Germany. Twelve guns and four radars entered RAF service with 1339 Wing Royal Auxiliary Air Force, operated by 2729 and 2890 Squadrons at RAF Waddington. Two more Skyguard units were procured. Budget cuts and maintenance costs eventually forced their retirement.{{cite hansard |title=Falklands Campaign (Captured Weapons) |url=https://api.parliament.uk/historic-hansard/written-answers/1985/jan/31/falklands-campaign-captured-weapons |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201174807/http://hansard.millbanksystems.com/written_answers/1985/jan/31/falklands-campaign-captured-weapons |archive-date=1 February 2009 |date=31 January 1985}}{{cite web |title=Britain's Small Wars – Argentine Weapons |url=http://www.britains-smallwars.com/Falklands/Argentineweapons.htm#35mm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201092905/http://www.britains-smallwars.com/Falklands/Argentineweapons.htm#35mm |archive-date=1 February 2009}} One gun is on display at the RAF Regiment Heritage Centre, RAF Honington. The Skyguard system is still used by the RAF to monitor low-level flights.

12 October 2007: A malfunctioning GDF-005 killed nine and injured 14 SANDF soldiers during an exercise at Lohatla, Northern Cape. The gun jammed, then entered automatic mode and fired a burst while traversing uncontrollably.{{cite magazine |last=Shachtman |first=Noah |title=Robot Cannon Kills 9, Wounds 14 |magazine=Wired |url=http://blog.wired.com/defense/2007/10/robot-cannon-ki.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090403071950/http://blog.wired.com/defense/2007/10/robot-cannon-ki.html |archive-date=3 April 2009}}{{cite web |title=SANDF Training Accident Report |url=http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=vn20071017062134984C689240 |website=IOL}} A 2008 SANDF report blamed a sheared spring pin, while others cited poor training.{{cite news |title=Pretoria News, page 3 |url=http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=139&art_id=vn20080126091940147C557196 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210180401/http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=139&art_id=vn20080126091940147C557196 |archive-date=10 February 2009 |date=26 January 2008}}

May 2025: The Pakistan Army Air Defence Corps deployed their Oerlikon GDF-002s during the 2025 India–Pakistan conflict.{{cite web |title=Israeli-Made Harop Attack Drones Launched By India By The Dozens, Pakistan Claims |url=https://www.twz.com/air/india-launched-dozens-of-israeli-made-harop-attack-drones-pakistan-claims |last=Altman |first=Howard |date=2025-05-08 |website=TWZ}} India launched numerous IAI Harop drones, with Pakistani defences reportedly downing 77.{{cite web |title=Number of Indian drones downed by Pakistan reaches 77 |url=https://tribune.com.pk/story/2544893/number-of-indian-drones-downed-by-pakistan-reaches-77-security-sources |date=2025-05-09 |website=E Tribune}}{{cite web |title=All you need to know about Israel-made Harop drones used by India in Pakistan |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1909385/all-you-need-to-know-about-israel-made-harop-drones-used-by-india-in-pakistan |date=2025-05-08 |website=Dawn}}{{cite web |title=29 shot down Harop drones cost India Rs5.73bn |url=https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1309831-29-shot-down-harop-drones-cost-india-rs5-73bn |date=2025-05-09 |website=The News International}}

• List of artillery
• List of anti-aircraft artillery
• List of artillery of Germany
• List of artillery of Switzerland

;Related development

• Oerlikon Millennium 35 mm Naval Revolver Gun System
• Type 09 SPAAA

;Notes

{{reflist|30em}}

;Bibliography

{{refbegin}}

• Jane's Land-Based Air Defence 2005–2006, by James C O'Halloran, {{ISBN|0-7106-2697-5}}
• RAF Harrier Ground Attack-Falklands, by Jerry Pook, {{ISBN|978-1-84415-551-4}}
• The Machine Gun, Volume V, George M. Chinn
• La Artillería Argentina en Malvinas, by Horacio Rodríguez Mottino. {{in lang|es}}

{{refend}}

• {{Commons category-inline}}
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20070311052502/http://www.rheinmetall-detec.com/index.php?lang=3&fid=1520&action=pd Rheinmetall page on 35 mm ammo]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20071029183211/http://www.rheinmetall-detec.de/index.php?fid=1556&lang=3&pdb=1 Official website]
• [https://archive.today/20140307024503/http://www.armyrecognition.com/germany_german_army_artillery_vehicles_systems_uk/skyguard_iii_1_oerlikon_air_defense_system_cannon_missile_technical_data_sheet_specifications.html Oerlikon Skyguard III Air Defense System on armyrecognition.com]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Oerlikon GDF}}

Category:35 mm artillery

Category:Autocannon

Category:Anti-aircraft guns

Category:Anti-aircraft guns of Germany

Category:Anti-aircraft guns of the Cold War

Category:Artillery of Switzerland

Category:Oerlikon-Contraves

Category:Military equipment introduced in the 1960s