Breaking News: Swiss Armed Forces to Acquire Advanced IRIS-T SLM Air Defense Systems from Germany’s Diehl Defence.

On April 11, 2025, the Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement (armasuisse) announced its intent to procure four to five IRIS-T SLM (Surface Launched Medium Range) air defense systems from the German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG. This acquisition is part of Switzerland’s involvement in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), a collaborative multinational effort to establish a layered, integrated air and missile defense system across Europe. The procurement will be backed by a credit guarantee of 660 million Swiss Francs, approved under the 2024 armament program, with contract signing expected in the third quarter of 2025.
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A Swiss Armed Forces future asset: The IRIS-T SLM launcher system, developed by Germany’s Diehl Defence, offers 360-degree coverage and precision engagement against modern aerial threats including cruise missiles, drones, and fighter jets—enhancing Switzerland’s medium-range air defense capability. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The German-made IRIS-T SLM air defense missile system will serve as a core element of Switzerland’s Ground-Based Air Defence Medium Range (GBAD MR) project, which aims to replace aging and limited-range systems currently in service, such as the Stinger and medium anti-aircraft artillery. These legacy systems are no longer adequate to counter modern threats, as advanced combat aircraft and stand-off weapons now operate at higher altitudes and longer distances. The IRIS-T SLM will close this critical gap by enabling effective engagement of aerial threats at medium range, complementing the longer-range capabilities of the future Patriot system and contributing to a comprehensive multi-layered air defense network.

The IRIS-T SLM system is a modern, all-weather, day-and-night capable air defense system designed to counter a wide range of airborne threats. Its missile component is based on the proven IRIS-T air-to-air missile but adapted for ground launch with enhanced capabilities. The system features an engagement range of up to 40 kilometers and can engage targets at altitudes up to 20 kilometers. The missile travels at speeds exceeding Mach 3 and is guided by an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker, providing high accuracy and resistance to countermeasures. It is equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead with both proximity and impact fuses, enabling it to neutralize fast, maneuverable targets with minimal collateral damage. The IRIS-T SLM delivers rapid reaction capability and provides full 360-degree defense coverage against a spectrum of aerial threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions.

Supporting the IRIS-T SLM is the TRML-4D radar, developed by Hensoldt AG, which plays a pivotal role in the system’s effectiveness. This radar uses cutting-edge Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology to detect and track up to 1,500 targets simultaneously within a range of approximately 250 kilometers. Highly mobile and rapidly deployable, the radar enhances the flexibility and survivability of the system, allowing it to adapt to dynamic operational conditions.

Between March 31 and April 11, 2025, armasuisse, in collaboration with the Swiss Armed Forces, Diehl Defence, and Hensoldt, conducted extensive field testing of the TRML-4D radar in various locations, including the federally owned Homberg test range and the Emmen aerodrome. The tests evaluated the radar’s performance in Switzerland’s challenging mountainous terrain, which dominates 70% of the country. Aircraft including the F/A-18, PC-12, and helicopters were used to test detection and tracking capabilities. Additionally, compatibility with civilian frequency bands—such as those used by weather radars—was examined to ensure smooth integration with existing national infrastructure. While no live missile launches were conducted, the trials provided vital data affirming the radar’s suitability for the unique Swiss operational environment.

The IRIS-T SLM system’s combat-proven performance has been prominently demonstrated in Ukraine, where it has successfully intercepted a broad spectrum of aerial threats, further validating its capabilities under real conflict conditions. Its success has drawn the attention of several NATO and European countries, solidifying its position as one of the most advanced and reliable medium-range air defense systems on the global market.

Switzerland’s decision to acquire the German-made IRIS-T SLM air defense missile system is a strategic move to bolster national defense and ensure the protection of its airspace in an increasingly complex threat landscape. As part of the broader GBAD MR program and the European Sky Shield Initiative, the system will significantly enhance the country’s integrated air defense by expanding coverage into the lower, medium, and parts of the upper airspace. It will also restore Switzerland’s ability to engage and defeat cruise missile threats over a wider geographic area. By modernizing its defense infrastructure with this highly capable system, Switzerland reaffirms its commitment to maintaining national security, supporting European stability, and preserving its traditional policy of neutrality through self-reliant yet collaborative defense measures.