Breaking News: Germany Delivers 10 IRIS-T Air Defense Missile Systems to Ukraine to Counter Daily Russian Air Strikes.

Germany has announced the delivery of 10 air defense missile systems to Ukraine, comprising both IRIS-T SLM and IRIS-T SLS variants. The German Ministry of Defense confirmed this significant step on May 6, 2025. The latest shipment builds on previous contributions, bringing the total number of IRIS-T systems delivered by Berlin to ten—a notable increase from the six systems previously confirmed. Alongside the hardware, a fresh batch of IRIS-T missiles was also supplied, further enhancing Ukraine’s capability to intercept Russian aerial threats.
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Ukrainian soldiers operating the IRIS-T German-made air defense missile system.  (Picture source: Ukrainian Air Force)

The delivery comes at a critical moment as Ukraine continues to endure relentless daily attacks from Russia, which employs a combination of ballistic and cruise missiles, Shahed-type loitering munitions, and various armed drones. In response to the escalating threat, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has renewed his appeal to Western allies for more advanced air defense systems. He emphasized the urgent need to protect urban centers, energy infrastructure, and frontline positions from persistent aerial barrages. In recent statements, President Zelensky has noted that while current air defense assets have saved countless lives, they remain insufficient given the volume and frequency of incoming attacks.

This development reflects Germany’s growing role as a central defense partner to Ukraine, particularly in the field of advanced air defense solutions. As the war continues to see persistent missile and drone attacks against Ukrainian infrastructure and population centers, such systems are critical in maintaining a functional defense umbrella. The inclusion of both SLM and SLS systems allows for a multi-layered approach to threat interception, addressing both long-range and close-in aerial dangers.

The IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Medium range) system is a state-of-the-art air defense platform developed by Diehl Defence. It is designed to neutralize a wide array of airborne threats, including combat aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters, and cruise missiles. The system has an interception range of up to 40 kilometers and can engage targets flying at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. Each SLM unit typically features three mobile launchers, each equipped with eight ready-to-fire missiles, coordinated through a high-performance radar system and a centralized command post. The SLM system provides area defense capabilities and has proven effective in previous combat deployments by offering precision and reliability even under saturation attack conditions.

Complementing the medium-range capability, the IRIS-T SLS (Surface-Launched Short range) variant is optimized for short-distance aerial engagements. With an effective range of approximately 12 kilometers, the SLS system is intended to counter low-flying threats such as drones, cruise missiles, and aircraft operating at closer proximity. Though more compact, the SLS uses the same family of IRIS-T missiles, adapted for vertical launch from a lighter vehicle platform. This makes it especially valuable for mobile deployments or to protect smaller, high-value targets that require a rapid-response shield. When integrated with the SLM units, the SLS provides a close-in protective layer, ensuring no gaps in air coverage.

The successful deployment of earlier IRIS-T units in Ukraine has already demonstrated the systems’ effectiveness on the battlefield. Ukrainian forces have reported high intercept rates against a variety of Russian missile types and drone incursions, thanks to the responsiveness and precision targeting of the IRIS-T systems. With each additional delivery, Ukraine’s integrated air defense network becomes more robust, better enabling it to defend its cities, troops, and infrastructure from constant aerial assault.

Germany’s commitment to supplying Ukraine with these modern systems goes beyond equipment. The support package includes training, integration assistance, and long-term sustainment capabilities. Looking forward, Germany has pledged to deliver 17 more IRIS-T air defense missile systems by 2026, reinforcing a strategic partnership rooted in defense innovation and resilience.

The latest delivery marks a significant milestone—not just in terms of numbers, but in the depth and sophistication of Western air defense assistance to Ukraine. For both countries, it signals an ongoing evolution of military cooperation shaped by the demands of modern warfare and shared commitment to defending sovereign airspace.