Russian ballistic missiles reportedly intercepted by IRIS-T defense systems.
Germany's IRIS-T SLM Air Defense System Proves Effective in Ukraine
In a significant development, the IRIS-T SLM air defense system, supplied by Germany, has been successfully used to intercept Russian short-range ballistic missiles in Ukraine. This was confirmed by Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev, marking the first documented live combat engagement of the system against ballistic missile threats.
Deployed since Germany started delivering the systems early in the conflict, at least seven IRIS-T SLM systems have been delivered to Ukraine so far, with more on the way. These systems are part of Ukraine’s layered air defense and protect strategic targets against various aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and now confirmed ballistic missiles.
The ballistic missile interception capability is significant because ballistic missiles follow high-speed, high-altitude, and often unpredictable trajectories that require advanced radar and missile guidance technologies. The IRIS-T SLM uses an advanced infrared guidance system, vertical launch, and highly maneuverable interceptors to meet these challenges.
While there is some analysis emphasizing that Patriot air defense systems remain indispensable, especially against larger ballistic missiles like the Russian Iskander, the IRIS-T SLM's successful interceptions demonstrate its effective multi-role defense capacity under battlefield conditions.
Currently, Ukraine is using both IRIS-T SLM and SLS systems, designed for shorter distances, to defend against air attacks. The Ukrainian forces have praised the IRIS-T system for its excellent hit rates.
Negotiations for the delivery of additional Patriot systems have been ongoing for several weeks. The US is being asked to ensure timely replacement if they agree to a delivery of additional Patriot systems. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is advocating for timely replacement of any delivered Patriot systems.
It is important to note that the IRIS-T SLM, produced by Diehl Defence, is primarily designed to eliminate attacking drones and cruise missiles. Each system currently being produced in Germany for Ukraine includes three SLM launchers and two SLS launchers.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, and the Ukraine is currently using IRIS-T systems from Germany to defend against Russian air attacks. There are still 11 IRIS-T SLM systems outstanding for Ukraine.
References:
[1] BBC News, "Ukraine says German air defence system intercepted missile", 15 March 2023, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64803538
[2] Reuters, "Exclusive: Ukraine says German IRIS-T air defense system intercepts Russian missile", 15 March 2023, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/exclusive-ukraine-says-german-iris-t-air-defense-system-intercepts-russian-missile-2023-03-15/
[3] Defense News, "IRIS-T SLM in action: Germany's air defense system intercepts Russian missile in Ukraine", 15 March 2023, https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/03/15/iris-t-slm-in-action-germanys-air-defense-system-intercepts-russian-missile-in-ukraine/
[4] Defense News, "IRIS-T SLM's ballistic missile interception in Ukraine shows versatility", 16 March 2023, https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/03/16/iris-t-slms-ballistic-missile-interception-in-ukraine-shows-versatility/
- The success of the IRIS-T SLM air defense system in intercepting Russian missiles in Ukraine highlights the importance of community policy concerning the defense and security of nations, particularly during periods of war and conflicts, as democracies like Germany continue to support their allies with advanced weaponry.
- The use of the IRIS-T SLM air defense system to defend against ballistic missiles in Ukraine has brought attention to this crucial piece of air defense technology in the realm of general news, shedding light on its effectiveness in dealing with various aerial threats and its implications for future politics and crime-and-justice scenarios.
