Faced with military threats from Russia, especially after Russia deployed missiles to Kaliningrad, just 530 km from Berlin, Germany has decided to strengthen its air defense system to protect its territory and contribute to the common security of Europe. The latest move by the German government is the German Army’s acceptance of the SLM version of the Iris-T air defense system, produced by the Diehl Group. This is the first time this system has been equipped for the country’s army, and it plays an important role in strengthening its defense capabilities against threats from Russia.
According to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Iris-T missile systems that Germany has provided to Ukraine have proven to be remarkably effective, helping to intercept up to 250 Russian missiles and drones, with a success rate of up to 95%. The statement was made at a handover ceremony of the Iris-T SLM system at a military base in Todendorf, northern Germany. Chancellor Scholz also stressed that it would be “reckless” not to provide adequate defenses against the Russian threat.
The Iris-T SLM system is capable of intercepting drones, fighter jets, helicopters and cruise missiles at a distance of 40 km and an altitude of 20 km. It is part of the multi-layered air defense system called European Sky Shield (ESSI), which Germany announced in August 2022. ESSI is a major European initiative, with the participation of 21 countries to create a comprehensive defense network. However, France has decided not to join ESSI, preferring to use domestically produced air defense equipment.
The ESSI project includes short-range defense systems such as the Iris-T, medium-range systems such as the US Patriot system, and long-range systems such as the Arrow-3, a joint product between the US and Israel. The German army has currently ordered a total of 6 Iris-T SLM systems, of which the remaining 5 will be delivered between now and May 2027. Each Iris-T SLM system includes a command center, a radar station with a coverage of 250 km, and multiple missile launchers, with a total value of about 140 million euros.
In addition to strengthening its own air defense system, Germany continues to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia. To date, Berlin has provided four Iris-T SLM systems and three Iris-T SLS systems to Ukraine. Chancellor Scholz also announced that Germany will provide an additional 17 Iris-T air defense systems to Ukraine, two of which will be delivered in 2024.
Germany’s push to boost its air defense capabilities is not only a measure to protect the country but also a contribution to Europe’s common security, as tensions with Russia continue to escalate.