At the ILA air show in Berlin, the general director of the German company Diehl Defense has announced a significant increase in production of IRIS-T air defense missiles due to escalating international demand and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Diehl Defence's CEO, amid heightened security concerns, outlined plans to produce at least 10 warheads annually starting in 2026 and to double production of IRIS-T medium-range missiles from 2025. This is the second announcement in nine months to increase production of the IRIS-T, reflecting Germany's commitment to strengthen its defense capabilities in response to growing threats from further Russian advances in Ukraine.
To date, Germany has delivered two IRIS-T units to Ukraine, where they are deployed mainly to protect Kyiv from Russian missile attacks. There are also promises to deliver six more IRIS-T units. In addition to supporting Ukraine, Berlin is preparing to strengthen its own defense forces, expecting the first delivery of six systems to its air force in October 2024.
This strategic move by Diehl Defense not only underscores the growing reliance on advanced missile defense systems amid global tensions in the field of security, but also emphasizes Germany's proactive steps in strengthening its military potential. Increased production of IRIS-T missiles is expected to meet the growing needs of international allies and support ongoing efforts to protect European airspace.
The IRIS-T SLM air defense system has an impressive set of technical characteristics that enhance its combat capabilities. The radius of the system reaches 40 kilometers, providing a significant protective buffer against incoming threats. It is capable of intercepting targets at altitudes from very low to high, up to 20 kilometers, providing full coverage of various threat profiles. This versatility allows the IRIS-T SLM to effectively engage and neutralize a wide range of aerial targets, including fast-moving aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles and even other ballistic missiles.
Key technical features include an advanced infrared homing system that provides high sensitivity and accuracy in identifying and tracking targets even under adverse weather conditions and countermeasures. The high maneuverability of the missile is achieved thanks to the control of the thrust vector, which allows you to quickly maneuver to intercept moving targets. The system is equipped with a multi-function phased array radar that provides 360-degree coverage, high-resolution tracking and discrimination capabilities that allow it to detect and engage multiple targets simultaneously.
In addition, the IRIS-T SLM is equipped with an automated unit command and control, which provides integration with other defense systems, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to threats. The system's modular design allows for rapid deployment and scalability, making it suitable for both stationary installations and mobile operations.