What is IRIS-T Surface-Launched-Missile (SLM) system?

May 22, 2023

European Union and NATO members Estonia and Latvia will soon begin negotiations with Germany's Diehl Defence for the purchase of IRIS-T SLM air defence system.

About IRIS-T Surface-Launched-Missile (SLM) system:

It is the medium-range version of the IRIS-T SL air defense missile system designed and produced by the German company Diehl Defense.
The system provides comprehensive 360° protection against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and guided weapons.
It enables simultaneous engagement of multiple targets from very short to medium-range within extremely brief reaction times.
It is suited for both mobile and stationary deployment.
Features:
- Each system comprises three vehicles: a missile launcher, a radar, and a fire-control radar, with integrated logistics and support.
- It is equipped with a radar with a range of 250 kilometers (155 miles).
- The missiles, which use infrared imaging to identify targets, are said to have a range of 40 kilometers (25 miles) and a maximum altitude of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).