NUREMBERG, Germany, Feb. 25, 2026 : Diehl Defence introduced the IRIS-T SLM/X air defense system on February 24 during Enforce Tac 2026, presenting a new launcher configuration capable of firing both IRIS-T SLM and IRIS-T SLX interceptors from a single platform. The exhibition took place in Nuremberg from February 23 to 25, 2026.
The IRIS-T SLM/X configuration is built around a common eight-canister launcher that allows mixed missile loads while maintaining eight ready-to-fire rounds per vehicle. The system is designed to extend engagement envelopes within the existing IRIS-T Surface Launched (SL) architecture without altering radar or command structures already in service.
Common Launcher with Mixed Interceptor Capability
The central development in the SLM/X configuration is the integration of both the medium-range SLM and extended-range SLX interceptors into a unified launcher system. Operators can configure missile loads according to mission requirements. Possible configurations include four SLM and four SLX interceptors, seven of one variant with one of the other, or a full complement of eight identical missiles.
The launcher supports vertical firing from sealed transport and launch canisters. It is unmanned and incorporates its own fire control computer, generator, and communication antennas. Automated leveling enables firing readiness within 10 minutes after emplacement. Reload time is approximately 15 minutes. Launchers can operate at distances of up to 20 kilometers from the tactical operations center.
Mounted on standardized 20-foot ISO container frames, the launcher can be transported by road, rail, sea, or air. The system is compatible with C-130 and A400M transport aircraft.
Engagement Envelope and Interceptor Specifications
The IRIS-T SLM variant provides engagement ranges of up to 60 kilometers and altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. The missile entered service in 2022 and is derived from the IRIS-T air-to-air missile family. It has a combat weight of 110 kilograms and is powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor with thrust vector control, produced by Nammo. The motor features an enlarged 152 mm diameter compared to the air-launched version. The missile reaches speeds of up to 1,020 meters per second (approximately Mach 3).
Guidance combines inertial navigation, GPS support, and a two-way data link for midcourse updates. In the terminal phase, the missile uses an imaging infrared seeker exposed after the jettisoning of a modified ogive nose cone. The warhead weighs 11.4 kilograms and is equipped with impact and proximity fuzes.
The SLX interceptor extends the operational reach of the IRIS-T SL architecture to a maximum range of 100 kilometers and altitudes up to 30 kilometers, with an interception range of approximately 80 kilometers. The missile incorporates a dual seeker and a dual-pulse motor to achieve extended range while remaining compatible with existing IRIS-T SLM launchers and fire units. Integration of the SLX does not require modifications to command posts or radar systems.
The combined SLM/X configuration enables coverage against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones, and standoff weapons. Both interceptor variants provide 360-degree engagement capability and rely on networked target data.
Fire Unit Structure and System Integration
A typical German fire unit consists of one Hensoldt TRML-4D radar, one IBMS-FC command post, and three launchers with eight missiles each, providing a total of 24 ready interceptors. The SLM/X configuration maintains full compatibility with this structure, preserving commonality in launcher hardware, command systems, and radar inputs.
The system’s unified architecture is intended to support logistical efficiency and streamlined training by avoiding the need for separate launcher platforms for different engagement ranges. Distribution of defense assets can be adjusted without structural changes to tactical operations centers.
IRIS-T Family and Development Status
The IRIS-T family includes the SLS (short-range), SLM (medium-range), SLX (extended-range), and HYDEF variants. The SLM entered operational service in 2022. The SLX remains in development for integration into existing SLM launchers and fire units without changes to established command and radar configurations.
In addition to the IRIS-T SLM/X, Diehl Defence presented other systems at Enforce Tac 2026, including the Unmanned Ground Vehicle Ziesel equipped with the PLATON autonomy kit and the GARMR counter-UAV system.
Diehl Defence, headquartered in Germany, employs 4,588 personnel and reported sales of €1.827 billion in 2024. The company operates 18 locations worldwide and has a history spanning 120 years. Its product portfolio includes air defense systems, guided missiles, ammunition, training systems, and protection equipment.
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