Denmark is acquiring five additional fire units (batteries) of the Iris-T SLM air defense system. This further increases attention on this air defense system from Diehl Defence, which has gained significant popularity due to its effectiveness in Ukraine.
The procurement is part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) and is intended as a "permanent air defense solution." It will complement one system already ordered in summer, which was a "temporary solution."
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Denmark has been investing heavily in strengthening its air defenses over the past year. For long-range coverage, the European SAMP/T system was selected, while negotiations continue regarding its American competitor Patriot.
However, Iris-T SLM will fill the short and medium-range niche, complemented by MICA VL and NASAMS. The latter includes one leased system and three newly ordered units for permanent use.
Diehl Defence states that including Denmark, 11 countries have now expressed interest in their air defense system. This is unsurprising given its excellent characteristics: range up to 40 km, operational altitude up to 20 km, and powerful guidance systems that are difficult to deceive.
Overall, the widespread popularity of Iris-T SLM was achieved through its use in Ukraine, where it demonstrated high effectiveness. This is confirmed by various military comments and by the manufacturer, who, while not naming which user provided the report, mentioned successfully repelling air attacks on over 15 targets.
Ukrainian air defenders currently await nine more such systems, scheduled for delivery in coming years. Germany promised to deliver four in 2025, but according to some sources, only three were delivered, with the last postponed to 2026.
However, this highlights the critical importance of scaling up production of Iris-T SLM, along with its components and missiles. With more customers coming, delivery pace must be maintained here and now.
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