Through his social media, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced yesterday that an agreement has been signed with the German company Diehl Defence to increase the supply of IRIS-T systems and their missiles to equip the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Specifically, the official stated that the production rate is expected to triple in the near future, providing a significant boost to the country’s air defense network.
Quoting some of his official statements: “Protecting Ukraine’s skies and cities is our priority. The signed agreement paves the way for major industrial projects that will enhance our air defense capabilities (…) I appreciate Diehl Defence’s trust and willingness to cooperate. It is important that leading global defense companies take steps toward Ukraine. The free world stands with us, and together we are creating new opportunities to strengthen our defense.”
It is worth remembering that Ukraine has had IRIS-T air defense systems since October 2022, when then-German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht announced their delivery to counter Russian drone and aircraft attacks. In terms of committed quantities, former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated last September that his country had ordered up to 17 IRIS-T units to be supplied to Kyiv, with the sixth unit being delivered by the end of 2024.
Briefly reviewing some of its technical features, it is useful to highlight that the IRIS-T is a medium-range surface-to-air missile defense system capable of neutralizing a wide range of threats, including drones, aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles. According to its manufacturer, the aforementioned Diehl Defence, the system has a range of up to 40 kilometers, with a maximum altitude of 20,000 meters. Additionally, it requires minimal personnel for operation, boasts a high degree of tactical mobility, and has the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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