The new launcher can deploy both missile types, including mixed configurations within the same battery. Based on its stated capabilities, the development has prompted comparisons with the US-made Patriot system.
The IRIS-T SLM medium-range system consists of a mobile command centre, a radar and several launch vehicles equipped with interceptor missiles. Its radar is capable of detecting targets at distances of up to 250 kilometres, including drones, aircraft and cruise missiles.
The SLM missiles can reportedly engage targets at ranges of up to 40 kilometres and altitudes of up to 20 kilometres. The longer-range IRIS-T SLX variant extends interception capability to distances of up to 80 kilometres.
In comparison with Patriot, the IRIS-T SLM is regarded as an additional layer of defence rather than a direct replacement. While Patriot is primarily designed for ballistic missile defence, the IRIS-T system is already used against drones, aircraft and cruise missiles, although its ballistic missile defence capability is limited by altitude range.
The Patriot system was developed by the United States during the Cold War and has been deployed since 1984. It has undergone multiple upgrades, including the Patriot Advanced Capability models, which expanded its role to counter ballistic missiles.
The latest PAC-3 MSE version uses a “hit-to-kill” approach, destroying targets through direct impact and achieving increased range and precision. A Patriot battery typically includes radar, a fire control centre, launchers, antennas and a power supply, and can be deployed within a few hours, though it is technically complex and expensive, with a single battery costing over $1 billion.
Demand for advanced air defence systems has increased significantly since Russia’s war in Ukraine highlighted the challenges of intercepting modern missile threats. Patriot systems are in service with 18 countries, and delivery can take around three years from order to deployment, with reports indicating that the United States temporarily halted exports last year due to shortages and domestic requirements.
Against this backdrop, Diehl Defence’s integrated IRIS-T SLM/SLX launcher represents an expansion of its air defence portfolio. By enabling both medium and long-range interceptors to be fired from a single platform, the company aims to offer greater flexibility within layered air defence architectures.
Source: Euronews.
