Germany has expanded its long-term procurement of IRIS-T missiles through new contracts with Diehl Defence, supporting both airborne and ground-based air defense requirements. The acquisition reinforces the Luftwaffe’s fighter fleet and strengthens layered air defense through the IRIS-T SLS and SLM systems. The effort follows a framework agreement signed in 2023 to restore missile inventories after transfers to Ukraine. The IRIS-T missile family has evolved from a short-range air-to-air weapon into a versatile air defense solution capable of countering aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones. Rising demand from 21 user nations has driven Diehl Defence to significantly expand production infrastructure.
