New IRIS-T Downs Seven Russian Missiles in First Engagement

A Ukrainian anti-aircraft unit has destroyed seven Russian cruise missiles in a single engagement using the newly acquired German-made IRIS-T air defense system.

This was the first combat use of the IRIS-T system by the Lviv Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade, which had previously relied on Soviet-era S-300 missile systems. The unit’s interception of all seven targets during a massive Russian missile and air attack has set a new record for the brigade.

“During the repelling of a massive missile and air strike, seven Russian cruise missiles entered our strike zone. We destroyed them one by one,” said Vitaly, commander of the anti-aircraft missile unit.

The Lviv Brigade had earlier downed up to five targets in a single battle using the older S-300 system. Since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022, the unit has destroyed a total of 55 enemy cruise missiles and drones.

"We worked well with the ‘three hundred,’ but this new system is a big step forward,” Vitaly added. “This is a modern and accurate complex that has already gained authority among our anti-aircraft gunners. We have no doubt that with it we will be able to surpass our previous result of 55 downed targets.”

The IRIS-T (InfraRed Imaging System Tail/Thrust Vector-Controlled) is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed by Germany’s Diehl Defence. It is specifically adapted for use against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones. The system uses an infrared homing head that guides the missile during the final approach to the target.

The recent engagement is being viewed as a turning point for the Lviv Brigade, showing the IRIS-T’s potential in real combat conditions. The brigade sees the destruction of seven cruise missiles as only the beginning of what it hopes will be an expanded capacity to intercept aerial threats.

In March, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense signed a memorandum of understanding with Diehl Defence, laying the groundwork for future deliveries of the IRIS-T system and cooperation on further strengthening Ukraine’s air defense network.