Germany Orders Major IRIS-T Missile Package From Diehl
The German arms procurement agency has contracted Diehl Defence to procure the IRIS-T family of guided missiles for the German Armed Forces.
The acquisition comprises multiple contracts covering both air-to-air and ground-based air defense applications.
Air-launched variants of the missile will be integrated onto the German Air Force’s Eurofighter and Tornado fleets, while interceptor versions will equip the IRIS-T SLS (short-range) and IRIS-T SLM (medium-range) ground-based air defense systems.
The contract builds on a 2023 framework agreement covering the procurement of more than 1,200 IRIS-T missiles. Intended to replenish Germany’s missile stocks following deliveries to Ukraine, the agreement provides for deliveries through 2030, with the first tranche scheduled for 2026.
“The constructive cooperation between Diehl Defence and the BAAINBw (German arms procurement agency) in the preparation and handling of the contract negotiations was an important prerequisite for the smooth procurement of these high-tech products, which are in great demand,” Diehl Defence stated.
IRIS-T
The IRIS-T originated as a next-generation short-range air-to-air missile developed in the late 1990s to replace the AIM-9 Sidewinder.
Building on its high maneuverability and imaging infrared guidance, the missile was subsequently adapted for ground-based air defense roles, resulting in the IRIS-T SLS and IRIS-T SLM systems.
The IRIS-T SLS employs the standard IRIS-T air-to-air missile without modification, providing 360-degree protection against cruise missiles, attack aircraft, armored combat helicopters, and drones of various classes.
It offers an engagement range of up to 12 kilometers (7.45 miles) and an intercept altitude of up to 8 kilometers (5 miles).
Meanwhile, the IRIS-T SLM forms the medium-range layer of air defense and is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats at distances of up to 60 kilometers (37 miles) and altitudes of up to 20 kilometers (12 miles).
To meet growing demand — with the IRIS-T missile family now in service with 21 user nations — Diehl Defence is investing approximately 1.5 billion euros ($1.77 billion) in expanded production capacity.
