The IRIS-T SLM air defence system successfully completed its mandatory operational certification conducted by the German Air Force at the NATO Missile Firing Installation (NAMFI) in Crete in mid-October. Following the live-fire test, the system was integrated into an exercise scenario. This exercise involved German and Swedish PATRIOT units, as well as STINGER / LeFlaSys systems. It demonstrated its interoperability.
As part of the certification process, Air Defence Missile Group 61 conducted training focused on integrating the components of the system developed by Diehl Defence. Specifically, the training involved the combined operation of the TRML-4D radar and the Common Tactical Operations Centre (CTOC). It also included a launcher equipped with IRIS-T SLM missiles.
In addition to German units, the Swedish Armed Forces also participated in the exercise with their PATRIOT system. Sweden had decided to procure the IRIS-T SLM system in 2025.
The IRIS-T SLM system successfully completed its certification firing and was integrated into the tactical exercise scenario. In this exercise, the effectiveness of operating the IRIS-T SLM alongside German and Swedish PATRIOT units was demonstrated. The exercise also involved STINGER / LeFlaSys systems.
Diehl Defence CEO Helmut Rauch stated that the successful certification firing confirmed the operational reliability and high accuracy of the IRIS-T SLM system. Rauch emphasized that this result was significant for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr). It was also important for the 10 countries that have already selected the system.
Lieutenant Colonel Björn Klarl, Commander of Air Defence Missile Group 61, stated that this first firing in Crete would not have been possible without the unit’s personnel. According to Klarl, the personnel quickly adapted to the new system through their high level of readiness and professionalism. As a result, they acquired the necessary expertise and conducted the firing safely and accurately. Klarl described the achievement as a milestone for the unit and an important step forward for Germany’s ground-based air defence.
With an effective range of up to 60 kilometres and an interception altitude of up to 20 kilometres, the IRIS-T SLM is used to protect cities and critical infrastructure. It defends these locations against cruise missiles, drones, aircraft, and helicopters.
The Bundeswehr received its first IRIS-T SLM air defence system in September 2024.
🔍 You may also like
Source: C4Defence – Diehl Defence
