IRIST SYSTEM TO UKRAINE BY GERMANY

 Germany has supplied Ukraine with several advanced air defense systems as part of its military support in the ongoing war against Russia. Two notable systems among these are:


IRIS-T SLM (InfraRed Imaging System – Tail/Thrust Vector-Controlled Surface Launched Medium range)


SLS (Short-Range Launch System), which is a component of the broader IRIS-T ground-based air defense family.



Let’s examine both IRIS-T SLM and IRIS-T SLS systems in detail, including their origins, technical features, capabilities, deployment in Ukraine, and their role in the current conflict.



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1. Background and Development


1.1 Origin


The IRIS-T missile family was originally developed as an air-to-air missile by a consortium led by Germany and involving other NATO countries.


Germany’s Diehl Defence later adapted the IRIS-T technology for ground-based air defense, leading to the creation of the IRIS-T SL (Surface Launched) family.


It includes:


IRIS-T SLS (Short Range)


IRIS-T SLM (Medium Range)


IRIS-T SLX (Extended Range) – still under development.





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2. IRIS-T SLM: Medium-Range Air Defense


2.1 Overview


The IRIS-T SLM system is designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones, and guided weapons at medium range.


It has become one of the cornerstones of Ukraine’s air defense system since its delivery from Germany.



2.2 Technical Specifications


Missile Range: Up to 40 km


Altitude Engagement: Up to 20 km


Speed: Mach 3+


Guidance System:


Inertial navigation during initial phase.


Data link mid-course guidance.


Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker for terminal phase.




2.3 Components


Launcher: Each unit carries up to 8 vertical launchers.


Radar: Typically integrated with the Hensoldt TRML-4D AESA radar, capable of tracking over 1500 targets.


Command and Control Unit (C2): Manages threat analysis and coordination with other defense systems.



2.4 Advantages


High accuracy and minimal collateral damage due to IIR seeker.


Quick reaction time and simultaneous multi-target engagement.


Capable of operating autonomously or integrated into NATO/Ukraine command systems.


All-weather and day-night operation.



2.5 Role in Ukraine


First delivered in October 2022.


Reports suggest that IRIS-T SLM systems have intercepted dozens of Russian cruise missiles and drones.


Deployed around Kyiv and major cities to protect against Russian aerial assaults.




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3. IRIS-T SLS: Short-Range Air Defense


3.1 Overview


IRIS-T SLS is the short-range variant of the system, designed to complement the SLM version by providing close-range defense.


It is particularly effective against low-flying targets, including UAVs, helicopters, and fast jets.



3.2 Technical Specifications


Missile Range: Up to 12–15 km


Altitude Engagement: Up to 8–10 km


Speed: Mach 3


Uses the same missile as the air-to-air IRIS-T but launched from the ground.



3.3 Components


Often mounted on light armored vehicles for mobility.


Uses smaller radars and electro-optical targeting systems for urban and battlefield defense.



3.4 Advantages


High mobility and flexibility.


Lower cost per interception than longer-range systems.


Effective against swarms of drones and pop-up helicopter threats.



3.5 Role in Ukraine


Used to protect military assets, convoys, and mobile units from low-altitude threats.


Complements other layers of defense like Gepard self-propelled guns and Stinger missiles.




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4. Comparison: IRIS-T SLM vs SLS


Feature IRIS-T SLM IRIS-T SLS


Range 40 km 12–15 km

Altitude 20 km 8–10 km

Radar TRML-4D Portable or vehicle-based radar/EO

Role Medium-range, strategic target defense Short-range, tactical and mobile defense

Cost High Moderate

Deployment Static or semi-mobile Highly mobile




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5. Operational Success in Ukraine


5.1 Performance Reports


Ukraine’s military has praised the IRIS-T SLM, calling it one of the most effective systems against Russian missile barrages.


IRIS-T SLM reportedly has over 80–90% success rates against incoming threats, even under saturation attack conditions.


Systems have been used to defend Kyiv, Odesa, Kharkiv, and major power infrastructure.



5.2 Challenges


Limited number of units available due to production constraints.


Systems require maintenance, parts, and training.


Russia targets air defense batteries with Iskander and Lancet loitering munitions, so Ukraine has to constantly relocate units to avoid detection.




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6. Germany’s Support and Expansion Plans


6.1 Deliveries


As of 2025, at least 4 IRIS-T SLM systems have been confirmed delivered to Ukraine.


Germany has pledged up to 8–10 more systems, depending on production timelines.


Deliveries are supplemented with missiles, radar systems, and logistics support.



6.2 Future Upgrades


Germany is also assisting Ukraine in building a multi-layered air defense network.


IRIS-T SLX, with a range of over 80 km, is under development and may be supplied in the future.


Germany is coordinating with NATO partners to integrate Ukraine's defense systems for interoperability.




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7. Strategic Impact on the Ukraine War


7.1 Defense of Infrastructure


Critical for defending power plants, transportation hubs, and military HQs.


Helped reduce the effectiveness of Russian cruise missile campaigns during winter.



7.2 Deterrence


Russian pilots now avoid contested airspace near IRIS-T protected zones.


Forces Russia to rely more on long-range missile and drone attacks.



7.3 Complementary Systems


IRIS-T works alongside other German-supplied systems like:


Gepard anti-aircraft tanks


Patriot missile systems (via US-German coordination)



Ukraine now uses a layered defense model:


Long-range (Patriot, SAMP/T)


Medium-range (IRIS-T SLM)


Short-range (IRIS-T SLS, Gepard, MANPADS)




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8. Conclusion


Germany’s contribution of the IRIS-T SLM and SLS air defense systems to Ukraine has had a transformational impact on the country’s ability to protect its skies. These modern, precise, and effective systems have dramatically improved Ukraine's resistance against aerial threats, particularly missile and drone attacks.


While the number of systems is currently limited, their strategic value is undeniable. The IRIS-T family represents a new era of NATO-standard air defense in Ukraine, playing a crucial role in keeping key cities and infrastructure safe. Continued support, maintenance, and additional deliveries will be vital in maintaining Ukraine’s defensive edge in the coming years.

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