By signing the purchase order worth around EUR 600 million, Latvia will receive all the necessary equipment for an effective operation of IRIS-T SLM systems, which will ensure the introduction of layered air defence in Latvia.
Deliveries of medium-range air defence systems are scheduled to start in 2026. Until then Latvia needs to train its personnel and upgrade its infrastructure, as well as fulfil other preconditions, so that the National Armed Forces are ready to fully operate and maintain the IRIS-T SLM systems by the time of the delivery.
As reported earlier, in September Latvia and Estonia signed the framework agreement on the purchase of the IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defence system manufactured by the German company Diehl Defence.
IRIS-T SLM air defence system is capable of destroying enemy aircrafts and drones within a radius of up to 40 kilometres and at altitudes of up to 20 kilometres. The joint procurement of one type of system will allow Latvia and Estonia to save budgetary funds and facilitate mutual coordination in the defence of the Baltic States region.
The purchase of IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defence system will contribute to Latvia’s goal to establish a multi-layered air defence system, where air defence systems of various range not only protect other ground assets but also provide mutual protection to each other. Each successive layer increases the overall resilience of the entire system against adversary activity. The development of such air defence capabilities in Latvia is one of the government’s priorities.
