On Friday, February 13, the German Air Force received its first IRIS-T air defense missile system. As Clemens Speer reports for “Security and Defense” the system in German configuration successfully passed the review process in “only” 1.5 years.
The handover of Diehl Defense to the German Armed Forces took place in September 2024, but instead of the troops being able to lay their hands on the system after the handover ceremony and presentation to the media, it was sent to the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) for verification.
Germany therefore remained true to itself despite its considerable operational experience with the system. For example, the crane for reloading the missiles, although tested in Ukraine, is likely to have fallen foul of these approval regulations. To date, Germany has ordered six IRIS-T SLM systems for the Bundeswehr. Apparently there could be up to 50 systems. Both the army and the air force are to receive IRIS-T SLM systems.
In addition to Ukraine and Germany, Egypt, Latvia, Estonia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Sweden, Switzerland and Denmark have ordered IRIS-T SLM systems, some of which have already been delivered. In Austria, the IRIS-T SLM system is a competitor in the upcoming tender for a medium-range air defense system for the Austrian Armed Forces.
Here for further news about Diehl Defence and here to further reports about the Bundeswehr.
