Germany ramps up support for Ukraine with advanced IRIS-T air defence system
German authorities have secured an additional IRIS-T air defence system for Ukraine. This system is among the most efficient in its class, sometimes referred to as the "monster from Germany," and has demonstrated its effectiveness throughout the current conflict. Let's delve into its capabilities.
The Ukrainians themselves have reported that the IRIS-T SLM system has achieved a 100 percent success rate in intercepting specific targets. This remarkable efficiency applies to maneuvering missiles, but the IRIS-T SLM is also highly effective against other enemy threats. Consequently, it stands alongside the American Patriot system as one of the most coveted weapons by the Ukrainians, which they are requesting from Western allies.
Effective air defense system
The IRIS-T is a German anti-aircraft system that employs IRIS-T air-to-air missiles. These were developed in the 1990s to succeed the AIM-9 Sidewinder. Among their features are thrust vectoring technology and large control surfaces, leading to excellent maneuverability and advanced thermal guidance. The latter results from the manufacturer incorporating a fourth-generation IR sensor, making it resilient against electronic warfare systems.
Diehl Defence has created several versions of this system - the IRIS-T SLX (long-range), the IRIS-T SLM (medium-range), and the IRIS-T SLS (short-range). These variants can neutralize maneuvering and ballistic missiles, aircraft, helicopters, and drones, but they differ in the type of chassis the launchers are mounted on and in their operational range.
IRIS-T air defense system for Ukraine
This time, Germany appears to be preparing another IRIS-T SLM variant for Ukraine. This model's launchers are mounted on a wheeled chassis (MAN 8×8) and house eight missile canisters. Upon launching, they can reach speeds of up to Mach 3 (around 2,300 mph). They can engage targets approximately 40 kilometres away and at altitudes of up to roughly 19 kilometres.
Martin Jaeger, the German Ambassador in Ukraine, disclosed that the support will arrive in Ukraine in May. He further noted that Germany is committed to supplying Ukraine with additional air defence systems, with deliveries planned through 2025 and 2026. Previously, Berlin had announced a comprehensive search for Patriot systems for Ukraine.
