Germany's Diehl Defence plans to increase production of Iris-T SLM and SLS air defense systems to 16 fire units (batteries) per year within two years. This is essential not only for the rearmament of Europe, but also for the defense of Ukraine's airspace.
The company's CEO, Helmut Rauch told about these plans in an interview with Reuters. He noted that production could reach up to 10 air defense batteries in 2026. Overall, industrial capacity could be expanded significantly if the appropriate contracts were in place.
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Anti-aircraft missiles were also discussed, with production having increased tenfold since 2021. However, Diehl Defence declined to disclose annual production figures, stating only that output would continue to rise as long as orders came in.
From Defense Express we would like to note that no statements have been made about any increase in ammunition supplies. As the most limited component of Ukraine’s air defense, it is important that partner countries see to its supply.
At the same time, it is worth noting that in August 2025, Diehl Defence announced a €1 billion investment to expand Iris-T SLM production, including its missiles. It is therefore likely that the company's CEO simply chose not to address this topic publicly.
Overall, production of air defense systems needs to be increased, as current output cannot meet all planned contracts. In 2025, instead of four fire units, only three were transferred, with Estonia providing one from its own stock.
It should be noted that the 16 planned batteries include both Iris-T SLM and simpler Iris-T SLS. Orders are also accumulating for short-range air defense systems, including those from Sweden.
Several European countries have purchased the larger Iris-T SLM as part of their rearmament programs, most recently Denmark, which has added them to its arsenal. Ukraine is expected to receive three or four systems in 2026, and with increased production, this may be fully achieved.
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