The Ukrainian government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Diehl Defence to enhance the country’s air defense capabilities.
The German defense contractor manufactures the IRIS-T air defense system, which has been deployed in Ukraine.
Their agreement calls for the establishment of major industrial projects for increased production of air defense systems.
A three-fold supply increase in air defense systems and missiles has been envisaged.
“I thank Diehl Defence for their trust and willingness to cooperate,” Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said following the agreement.
“It is important that leading global defense companies are taking steps toward Ukraine. The free world stands with us, and together we are creating new opportunities to strengthen our defense.”
Seventeen More IRIS-Ts in Ukraine
A total of six IRIS-Ts have been delivered to Ukraine by Germany, while an additional 17 have been ordered.
All the systems are expected to be delivered by 2026, which includes both medium and short-range variants.
To meet rising global demand, Diehl Defence announced the doubling of IRIS-T production from 2025.
IRIS-T
The IRIS-T SL (surface-launched) system is the air defense version of the IRIS-T air-to-air missile, featuring a missile launcher, radar, and command and control system.
It also comes in medium-range (SLM) and short-range (SLS) variants.
The SLM can intercept a target from a range of 40 kilometers (25 miles) and an altitude of 20 kilometers (12.5 miles). Its radar detection range is 250 kilometers (155 miles).
It provides 360-degree coverage against a host of threats, such as fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
The SLS’ operational range is 12 kilometers (7.45 miles) and an altitude of 8 kilometers (5 miles).
