IRIS-T SLS German Short-Range Air Defense Missile System
IRIS-T SLM
Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System
Other
Basic Information
Name
IRIS-T SLS German Short-Range Air Defense Missile System
Designation
IRIS-T SLM
Alternate Designation
IRIS-T SLM
Equipment Type
Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System
Manufacturer
Diehl Defense
Date of Introduction
2023
Description
The IRIS-T SLS German Short-Range Air Defense Missile System was developed by Diehl Defence, a leading German defense manufacturer. It is designed to provide rapid and highly mobile protection against various aerial threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. As the short-range component of the IRIS-T Surface-Launched (SL) family, the SLS version is a cost-effective and efficient air defense solution that leverages the IRIS-T air-to-air missile in a ground-based role.
Ground Specifications
Mobility Type
Wheeled (4x4)
Main Weapon
IRIS-T surface-to-air missiles
Engine
Diesel
Max Speed
90.0 km/h
Range
600.0 km
System
Alternative Designation
IRIS-T SLM
Type
Short-Range Air Defense Missile System
Manufacturer
Diehl Defense
Chassis
The IRIS-T SLS missile launcher station is mounted on various high-mobility military platforms to ensure rapid deployment and operational flexibility. It is commonly integrated into high-mobility trucks such as the MAN HX series or Unimog platforms, which provide excellent off-road capability while maintaining high-speed maneuverability on paved roads. The IRIS-T SLS used by the Ukrainian army is based on an Italian-made Iveco Eurocargo 4x4 chassis. Depending on mission requirements, these vehicles are configured in 4x4, 6x6, or 8x8 setups, offering an operational range of over 600 km and a top speed of approximately 90 km/h. This mobility allows the system to quickly reposition in response to evolving threats, ensuring continuous air defense coverage for maneuvering ground forces.
Crew
INA
Dimensions
Note
The IRIS-T SLS missile launcher station can also be mounted on the BvS10 all-terrain tracked amphibious vehicle, which consists of a two-section articulated platform designed for extreme mobility in challenging terrains such as snow, swamps, and mountainous regions. The BvS10 features a front crew compartment and a rear cargo unit, with the IRIS-T SLS launcher mounted on the rear section. This configuration enables deployment in amphibious operations, Arctic warfare, and other challenging environments where wheeled platforms may be limited. The wheeled and tracked vehicle integration combination ensures that the IRIS-T SLS can be deployed in diverse operational scenarios, from conventional battlefield environments to specialized terrains.
Automotive
Engine Name
INA
Engine Type
Diesel
Engine Power
INA
Maximum Range
INA
Maximum Speed
INA
Main Weapon System
Missile Launcher
The IRIS-T SLS launcher is a lightweight, modular system for high mobility and rapid deployment. It is housed in a 10-foot ISO frame, making it compatible with various military vehicle platforms and enabling easy transportation and integration into different operational settings. The launcher can accommodate between four and six IRIS-T surface-to-air missiles in ready-to-fire canisters, providing a high rate of fire and rapid reloading capability. Positioned on a rotating platform, the launcher allows full 360-degree engagement, ensuring comprehensive protection from threats approaching from any direction. The system is remotely operated and connected to a central command unit, which issues fire control commands and coordinates engagements within a networked air defense environment.
Missile
The IRIS-T missile used in the SLS system is a highly maneuverable, infrared-guided interceptor with exceptional accuracy and resistance to countermeasures. It features an advanced imaging infrared seeker that enables precise target acquisition and tracking, even when electronic jamming or countermeasures such as flares are deployed. The missile is approximately 2.9 meters in length, has a diameter of 127 mm, and weighs around 87 kg. Its high-explosive fragmentation warhead is optimized for aerial targets, ensuring a high probability of direct hit and effective destruction upon impact. With an effective range of up to 12 km and an altitude coverage of 8 km, the IRIS-T SLS provides robust defense against low- and medium-altitude threats. The missile’s thrust-vector control system allows for exceptional maneuverability, enabling it to engage highly agile targets such as fighter jets and drones. The system operates on a fire-and-forget principle, meaning the missile does not require further guidance after launch, allowing operators to engage multiple threats simultaneously. Its all-weather capability ensures effective operation in diverse climatic conditions, making it a highly versatile asset in modern air defense.
Radar And Command Vehicles
Note
The IRIS-T SLS is fully integrated into networked air defense architectures, utilizing advanced command and control (C2) systems for fire coordination and threat management. The system operates within a mobile command post, typically housed in an armored vehicle for protection, where operators receive target data and engage threats in real-time. The IRIS-T SLS is compatible with modern 3D radar systems, such as the TRML-4D and Giraffe 4A, which provide high-resolution target tracking and engagement support.
The fire control system is fully automated, allowing rapid target acquisition and engagement with minimal operator input. Additionally, the system is designed to function within NATO-standard data link frameworks, including Link 16 and SAMOC, ensuring seamless interoperability with allied air defense networks. An IRIS-T SLS battery typically consists of multiple launchers, a radar unit, and a mobile command center, forming a complete short-range air defense system capable of defending key operational areas.
Protection
Armor
INA
Applique Armor
INA
NBC Protection
INA
Details
Country of Origin
Germany
Filter Label
I
Classification
Domain
Ground
Equipment Status
Active
Dimensions
Length
2.9 m
Width
0.13 m
Height
—
Weight
—
Operators (4)
Germany
Sweden
Estonia
Norway
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