Denmark Picks IRIS-T SLM System for Air Defence under European Sky Shield Initiative

The Danish Ministry of Defence has selected the IRIS-T SLM system from Diehl Defence as an interim solution for its Surface Based Air and Missile Defence (SBAMD) requirements.

The contract was signed on July 29 by Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, and Ralph Herzog, Vice President of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). Denmark’s Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) had previously authorized BAAINBw to carry out the procurement on its behalf.

The acquisition is being executed under the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) standard agreement, allowing for a faster and more streamlined process. Denmark is the eighth country to adopt the IRIS-T SLM system under ESSI, joining Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Sweden and Switzerland.

The IRIS-T SLM system is intended to protect civilians, military forces and critical infrastructure against threats from aircraft, helicopters, drones and cruise missiles. It offers 360° coverage, high tactical mobility, and multiple target engagement with a range of up to 40 km and altitude coverage up to 20 km. A fire unit includes missile launchers, radar and a tactical operations center, supported by workshop, spare parts and reloading vehicles.