Iris-T

The Infra-Red Imaging System Tail (IRIS-T) is one of the most advanced air defense missiles in the world and is used by several countries, including Germany. Originally designed as an air-to-air missile, the technology has been further developed. Ground-based variants such as the IRIS-T SLM are now also available and play a decisive role in asymmetric conflicts in particular. The IRIS-T system attracted international attention, particularly in the context of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. Read all the news about IRIS-T from the Table.Briefings editorial team here. What is the IRIS-T system? The IRIS-T was originally developed as a short-range air-to-air missile. It is equipped with an image-processing infrared seeker head that enables high-precision target tracking. This technology was later adapted for ground-based applications, leading to the development of variants such as the IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Medium-Range). Designed specifically for air defense against aircraft, helicopters, drones and ballistic missiles, the IRIS-T SLM system has three main components: The ability to precisely engage targets at a distance of up to 40 kilometers and an altitude of 20 kilometers makes the system particularly effective. IRIS-T in Ukraine Ukraine received several IRIS-T SLM systems from Germany in the course of the Russian war of aggression against the country. This support has significantly strengthened the defense potential of the Ukrainian armed forces. The systems are primarily used to protect cities and critical infrastructure such as power plants and communication centers. Compared to older Soviet air defense systems previously deployed by Ukraine, IRIS-T: The success of IRIS-T SLM systems in Ukraine underscores their effectiveness and makes them a key element of modern air defense strategies. How many IRIS-T SLM systems does the Bundeswehr have? The Bundeswehr has been relying on the IRIS-T system for several years, particularly in the air-to-air variant. However, it currently only has a limited number of the ground-based IRIS-T SLM version. According to official information, four systems have been ordered to date, some of which are already in active use. This small number is often criticized, as the IRIS-T SLM is considered indispensable for defending against modern threats such as drones or cruise missiles. However, the Bundeswehr is planning to expand its inventory in the coming years in order to further strengthen its air defense capabilities. What does an IRIS-T SLM system cost? The cost of a complete IRIS-T SLM system varies depending on the configuration and additional components that can be integrated to meet specific requirements. A fully equipped system consisting of multiple launchers, radars and command units is estimated to be around EUR 150 million. IRIS-T vs. Patriot: A comparison The IRIS-T system is often compared to the Patriot system, which is one of the best-known air defense systems in the world. The IRIS-T SLM system and the Patriot system differ in several key characteristics that define their respective strengths and areas of application: The points listed above make it clear that the two systems complement each other in their operational purposes and are optimized for different scenarios. While the Patriot system has a greater range and is particularly suitable for protecting entire regions, the IRIS-T SLM offers greater mobility and flexibility in use. It is therefore ideal for the targeted defense of critical points. Who manufactures IRIS-T? The IRIS-T system is developed and produced by the German company Diehl Defence. Diehl Defence is part of the Diehl Group, a leading provider of defense technology based in Germany. Diehl Defence works closely with the German Armed Forces and international partners to continuously develop the IRIS-T system as a manufacturer. This includes the integration of new technologies as well as the adaptation to specific operational requirements, and the IRIS-T system is continuously modernized to meet the requirements of today's and tomorrow's warfare. The changes made include: IRIS-T's capabilities make it a central element of modern air defense systems. In Ukraine in particular, the system has proven its effectiveness and could be exported and deployed on an even larger scale in the future. The IRIS-T SLM system combines precision, flexibility and state-of-the-art technology to provide reliable defense against air threats. Its success in Ukraine and its increasing importance for the Bundeswehr underline the crucial role of IRIS-T in modern defense strategies.

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