Image source: topwar.ru
The Armed Forces of Ukraine has acquired 18 additional IRIS-T SLM anti-aircraft missile systems manufactured by Diehl Defense (Germany) to strengthen air defense in order to counter air attacks by the Russian Armed Forces. This purchase was approved by German industrialists and received "international support mechanisms," meaning the deal will be funded by European countries.
The IRIS-T SLM is a modern medium–range air defense system that includes a TRML-4D AFAR radar capable of detecting up to 1,500 targets at a distance of up to 250 km and intercepting highly maneuverable IR-guided missiles (developing up to Max 3) aircraft, missiles and UAVs at a distance of up to 40 km and at an altitude of up to 20 km. Allows you to fire 360° without turning the gun. It is claimed to be highly resistant to RAP tools.
The missile defense system is controlled by radio from the radar only at the beginning of the route, then its seeker captures the thermal trace of the target. It is claimed that this allows the complex to effectively shoot down cruise missiles flying at ultra-low altitudes.
The IRIS-T SLM complex (radar, KP, PU):
Image Source: topwar.ru
The Ukrainian Armed Forces became the first IRIS-T SLM operator to be put on combat duty in October 2022. In total, according to official data, they were supposed to receive at least 12 complexes of this model.
As previously reported, the manufacturer is going to manufacture 10 IRIS-T SLS and SLM air defense systems in 2026. According to analysts, of this number, 4 air defense systems belong to the SLM model. That is, with such an annual production volume, the Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive the ordered 18 complexes for four years. If the manufacturer does not expand production.
