Ukraine and Diehl Defence Collaborate to Enhance Air Defense with IRIS-T Systems

The Ukrainian government has entered into a memorandum of understanding with German defense contractor Diehl Defence to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities. This agreement aims to establish significant industrial projects to increase the production of air defense systems, envisioning a three-fold supply increase in both air defense systems and missiles.

Diehl Defence is renowned for manufacturing the IRIS-T air defense system, which has been operational in Ukraine. To date, Germany has delivered six IRIS-T systems to Ukraine, with an additional 17 systems on order, all expected to be delivered by 2026. These deliveries include both medium-range and short-range variants. In response to rising global demand, Diehl Defence has announced plans to double IRIS-T production starting in 2025.

Overview of the IRIS-T Air Defense System

The IRIS-T (InfraRed Imaging System Tail/Thrust Vector-Controlled) is a family of missiles developed to counter a variety of aerial threats. Originally designed as an air-to-air missile, it has been adapted into surface-launched versions to serve as effective ground-based air defense systems.

Variants and Specifications

1. IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Medium-range):

   • Range: Capable of intercepting targets at distances up to 40 kilometers (approximately 25 miles).
   • Altitude: Effective up to 20 kilometers (approximately 12.5 miles).
   • Radar Detection Range: Equipped with radar systems that can detect targets within a 250-kilometer (approximately 155 miles) radius.
   • Coverage: Provides 360-degree protection against various threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

2. IRIS-T SLS (Surface-Launched Short-range):

   • Range: Effective at intercepting targets up to 12 kilometers (approximately 7.45 miles) away.
   • Altitude: Operational up to 8 kilometers (approximately 5 miles).
   • Coverage: Offers 360-degree defense against similar aerial threats as the SLM variant.

Key Features:

• Advanced Guidance System: Both variants utilize infrared imaging for precise target acquisition and engagement, enhancing their effectiveness against modern aerial threats.
• High Agility: Designed for exceptional maneuverability, allowing them to effectively engage highly agile targets.
• Compatibility: The IRIS-T systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing air defense networks, providing flexible deployment options.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed gratitude towards Diehl Defence for their trust and willingness to cooperate, emphasizing the importance of global defense companies taking steps toward Ukraine. He highlighted that the free world stands with Ukraine, and together, they are creating new opportunities to strengthen their defense capabilities.

This collaboration signifies a strategic effort to enhance Ukraine's air defense infrastructure, ensuring better protection against a wide array of aerial threats in the region.