Germany to Supply Another IRIS-T SLM Air Defense System to Ukraine.

Germany plans to deliver another IRIS-T air defense missile system to Ukraine this May, announced Martin Jager, the German Ambassador to Ukraine, on May 13, 2024. The announcement comes as Ukraine seeks to strengthen its air defense capabilities following an increase in Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure.
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The IRIS-T SLM is a medium-range air defense system designed in Germany. (Picture source: Bundeswehr)

During a recent address, German Ambassador Jager noted that Ukraine is already equipped with several IRIS-T systems. He confirmed that further deliveries are scheduled not only for later this year but also for 2025 and 2026. Additionally, Germany plans to send a Patriot air defense system to Ukraine, expected to arrive no earlier than the end of June.

This development signifies an increase in Germany's military support to Ukraine. Germany had previously delivered two IRIS-T SLM systems to the Ukrainian forces. Initially criticized for the slow pace of its aid following the onset of the conflict, Germany has now become Ukraine's second-largest supplier of military equipment, after the United States.

Previously, Germany provided Ukraine with three IRIS-T SLM systems with a range of up to 40 kilometers and one IRIS-T SLS system.

The IRIS-T SLM is a medium-range air defense system designed in Germany. It uses missiles weighing 87.4 kg and measuring 2.94 meters in length. These missiles can reach speeds of Mach 3, allowing them to cover distances up to 40 kilometers. They are equipped with a highly explosive fragmentation warhead, optimized for effectively destroying aerial targets.

The guidance system of the IRIS-T SLM is based on infrared homing, enabling the missile to track its targets by detecting the heat it emits. It is integrated into a sophisticated network of radars and command systems to enhance its accuracy and responsiveness. Among the equipment used are the Saab Giraffe radar, CEA Technologies CEAFAR multifunction radar, Terma A/S Oerlikon Skymaster combat control system, TRML-4D multifunctional radar, and the Airbus Tactical Operation Centre. This combination of advanced technologies enables the IRIS-T SLM system to detect, track, and effectively engage aerial targets, playing a crucial role in defending Ukraine’s airspace against aerial threats.

The IRIS-T SLS, meanwhile, has similar technical capabilities but with a reduced range of 12 kilometers. There is also a third variant, the IRIS-T SLX, which has a range of 80 kilometers and a maximum altitude of 30 kilometers.

In April, Germany also took the initiative to enhance Ukraine's air defenses, with Canada and Belgium joining as partners. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on April 6 the need for 25 Patriot systems to effectively defend the country's airspace against ongoing Russian attacks.