As reported by the global media outlet, Reuters, on June 13, 2023, Germany is set to boost its air defense capabilities with the procurement of six IRIS-T SLM missile systems. The transaction, valued at an estimated €900 million, is expected to considerably enhance the country’s Air Force. The first IRIS-T SLM system will be delivered in 2024, with five additional units to follow by 2027. There are also plans underway to integrate mixed SLS/SLM systems.
Under the umbrella of the LVS NNbS program, the German Ministry of Defense is committed to advancing the nation’s short-range and very short-range air defense mechanisms. This initiative aims to address current capability gaps in safeguarding ground troops and tactical operation centers, among other assets, from aerial threats of short and very short range.
The LVS NNbS program is anticipated to phase out and upgrade the functionalities of the existing Mantis weapon system and the Ozelot light air defense system. At present, the German armed forces’ inventory includes two Mantis systems and two Ozelot platoons.
In a comprehensive revamp of its air defense strategy, Germany plans to assimilate the IRIS-T, Israeli Arrow 3, and American PATRIOT air defense missile systems into its armed forces’ arsenal.
The IRIS-T (Infra-Red Imaging System Tail/Thrust Vector-Controlled) is a German-led program to develop a short-range infrared homing air-to-air missile to replace the AIM-9 Sidewinder found in some NATO countries.