Breaking News: Germany Delivers Two Additional IRIS-T Air Defense Missile Systems to Ukraine.

Berlin, Germany, June 14, 2024 – In a recent announcement, the German Ministry of Defense confirmed the delivery of two more IRIS-T air defense missile systems to Ukraine. This latest shipment includes one IRIS-T SLS and one IRIS-T SLM, bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities amid ongoing hostilities. Before this, Germany had already supplied Ukraine with three IRIS-T SLM and one IRIS-T SLS systems, underscoring its continued military support.
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Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL) truck of German-made IRIS-T SLM air defense missile system. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, international military assistance to Ukraine has been significant financially and in the diversity of military equipment provided. Germany has been a key contributor, committing millions of euros in military aid. 

The IRIS-T SLS (Surface Launched Short-range) and IRIS-T SLM (Surface Launched Medium-range) are both advanced air defense missile systems developed by Germany, designed to counter different types of aerial threats with varying engagement capabilities.

The IRIS-T SLS is a short-range air defense system with an engagement range of approximately 10 kilometers and an altitude coverage of up to 5 kilometers. It is designed primarily to engage and destroy aircraft, helicopters, drones, and short-range missiles. This system is typically deployed to provide close-range defense for key assets or troop formations, offering protection against immediate aerial threats.

In contrast, the IRIS-T SLM is a medium-range air defense system with a significantly greater operational range, capable of engaging targets up to 40 kilometers away and at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. The SLM can counter a wider variety of threats, including aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at longer distances. It is used to provide broader area defense, protecting larger zones and multiple assets simultaneously.

In summary, the main differences between the IRIS-T SLS and SLM systems lie in their engagement range and altitude, as well as the types of targets they are designed to counter. The SLS offers close-range protection against immediate threats, while the SLM provides extensive coverage against a broader range of threats at greater distances.

In addition to air defense systems, Germany has supplied Ukraine with a range of military hardware, including Gepard anti-aircraft air defense systems, PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, Leopard main battle tanks, Marder 1A3 IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicles) and multiple rocket launchers. Other NATO countries have also played a crucial role, with the United States leading in financial and equipment contributions. American support has included HIMARS rocket systems, M777 howitzers, Javelin anti-tank missiles, and extensive financial aid aimed at sustaining Ukraine’s defense efforts.

Since the onset of the Russian armed attack on Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Germany has delivered military equipment and combat vehicles from Federal Armed Forces stocks valued at approximately 5.2 billion euros, based on estimated replacement costs. Additionally, over 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers have undergone military training in Germany.

The European Union collectively has provided billions of euros in military aid, encompassing everything from small arms and ammunition to armored vehicles and training support. The UK, France, and other EU nations have consistently supplied advanced weaponry, intelligence support, and cyber defense assistance, enhancing Ukraine’s ability to counter the Russian offensive.

This international support highlights a unified commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The continuous flow of advanced military equipment and financial aid has been pivotal in bolstering Ukraine's defense infrastructure, enabling it to withstand and counter the aggression more effectively.

As the conflict persists, the latest delivery of IRIS-T systems from Germany significantly enhances Ukraine's air defense capabilities, providing critical protection against aerial threats. The sustained military aid from the international community remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s resistance strategy, illustrating a robust alliance against the Russian invasion of Ukraine.