German firm develops extended-range IRIS-T missile to ease Patriot reliance

German defense manufacturer Diehl Defence is advancing its IRIS-T air defense capabilities by developing an extended-range variant, the IRIS-T SLX. This new system is designed to complement the existing IRIS-T SLM, which has already seen significant deployment, with 20 units delivered to Ukraine.

Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, stated that the development aims to lessen the dependency on the limited and costly Patriot interceptor missiles. This strategic move allows the more advanced Patriot systems to focus on high-value targets like ballistic missiles, while the enhanced IRIS-T can handle medium-to-low altitude threats such as cruise missiles and drones.

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The company is developing an extended-range version of the IRIS-T air defense system, which is expected to reduce reliance on the scarce 'Patriot' interceptor missiles.

Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which spurred increased defense spending across Europe, Diehl Defence has experienced a substantial surge in demand. Rauch reported a twentyfold increase in deliveries and noted that 21 countries have ordered the IRIS-T system, with recent additions including Switzerland, Sweden, and Denmark. The company is also observing growing interest from Persian Gulf nations due to regional conflicts.

Rauch also commented on the stalled Franco-German Future Air Combat System (FCAS) program, suggesting that its potential cancellation might be a positive outcome if partners are unable to collaborate effectively. Diehl Defence anticipates participating in any subsequent fighter jet development programs.

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If industry partners are not suitable for working together, I think it is best to cancel such projects and restart them in some way.