Launcher for the IRIS-T SLM/X air defense missile system presented
The German military-industrial complex continues to develop the IRIS-T SL series of anti-aircraft missile systems. Currently, the primary focus of this effort is on the creation and deployment of a promising long-range guided missile and associated systems. For example, a new modification of the self-propelled launcher, capable of using both existing and future munitions, was recently unveiled.
Perspective sample
From February 23-25, the Enforce Tac 2026 military-technical exhibition was held in Nuremberg. At the event, the German company Diehl Defence showcased its latest developments. Specifically, it presented modern air defense systems comprising several systems and complexes.
The company reported continued development of the IRIS-T SLX advanced long-range surface-to-air missile. The project is progressing well and is approaching full-scale flight testing. Furthermore, new ground-based assets are being developed for the future operation and combat employment of this missile.
At Enforce TAC 2026, the upgraded self-propelled launcher, designated IRIS-T SLM/X, was unveiled for the first time. It was developed based on the existing self-propelled launcher for the IRIS-T SLM system, retaining its core technical solutions and components. To ensure compatibility with the SLX missile, the vehicle's hardware and software were updated, and the launcher was also modified.
The ammunition load of such a SPU will include two types of missiles: existing medium-range munitions and prospective long-range missiles. The ammunition load may be mixed or consist of only one type of SAM. This will provide some flexibility of use and is expected to simplify organization. Defense with the required characteristics.
The new IRIS-T SLM/X launcher already exists as a prototype. It may begin field testing soon. However, full-scale, comprehensive testing will only begin after the new missile's development is complete.
Basic version of the IRIS-T SLM product. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Updated look
The new SPU is based on the existing model and retains its key features, characteristics, and capabilities. However, the IRIS-T SLM/X will be able to use missiles of various models, which will impact its combat and operational potential.
As before, the IRIS-T SL combat vehicle is built on a four-axle MAN SX-type chassis. Alternative platforms can be used at the customer's request. The multi-seat crew cabin with its necessary instrumentation is retained. Behind it are mounted enclosures housing the electronics and telescopic masts for individual instruments. A missile launcher is mounted on the cargo platform.
The IRIS-T SLM/X is designed to carry two types of missiles, housed in standard-sized transport and launch containers. The launcher can accommodate eight transport and launch containers with ammunition of the same type. A mixed loadout—four each of medium-range and long-range SAMs—is also provided. The order in which the containers with the different missiles are to be installed is not specified.
Improvements to the onboard SPU hardware and software control system have been reported. The main innovations relate to the operation of the new missile. The current version of the software facilitates data exchange with the missile's electronics and performs other tasks.
Two rockets
The proposed launcher is capable of firing two types of SAMs, each with distinct key characteristics. It is possible that the SPU will eventually be capable of launching IRIS-T SLS short-range missiles.
Diehl Defence has now launched the IRIS-T SLM medium-range missile into serial production and is delivering it to customers. This missile is designed to intercept various aerial targets, including some UAVs and precision-guided munitions.
Launch of a medium-range anti-aircraft missile. Photo: Diehl Defence
IRIS-T SLM has a traditional for such weapons The design. The total length of the munition reaches 3,45 meters with a diameter of 152 mm. The launch weight is 130 kg. The missile is equipped with a solid-fuel motor with thrust vector control and can reach speeds of up to 1000 m/s. The maximum launch range is stated at 40 km. The interception altitude is 20 km.
The medium-range missile is equipped with an infrared homing head, standardized across the IRIS-T SL family. Target acquisition occurs before launch or in flight. The missile destroys its target with an 11,4 kg high-explosive fragmentation warhead with a proximity fuse.
The IRIS-T SLX long-range missile bears little resemblance to the SLM. Its overall design and many components had to be developed from scratch to achieve the desired performance characteristics. However, this SAM has dimensions comparable to a medium-range munition and places no special demands on the SLM.
According to the developer, the SLX missile will be capable of engaging a designated range of air targets at ranges of up to 80 km and altitudes of up to 30 km. Due to the increased launch range, a new guidance system is being developed. It will include an infrared and radar seeker, as well as an autopilot and navigation system. This SAM will spend part of its trajectory following predetermined coordinates before engaging its homing system.
As part of the system
The IRIS-T SLM/X self-propelled launcher, armed with two types of missiles, will operate as part of a surface-to-air missile system of the same name. This system must include several launchers with the required ammunition complement, as well as radars, control systems, and other equipment. The minimum required complement of systems will constitute an anti-aircraft battery.
The IRIS-T SLM air defense system can integrate various radar types from European and international manufacturers. For example, the ability to integrate Hensoldt TRML-4D, Thales Ground Master 200 MM/C, Saab Giraffe 4A, and other radars was demonstrated at exhibitions. In all cases, it enables detection of large air targets at ranges of at least 100-120 km, tracking of a large number of objects, and more.
The Hensoldt TRML-4D radar, used in the IRIS-T SL. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The SAM system can also use passive electronic reconnaissance systems to locate targets. Several types of optical-electronic stations are available. While they are inferior to modern radars in terms of their main characteristics, they are capable of performing their tasks under given conditions and do not reveal their position.
Customers are offered a choice of several command posts. The anti-aircraft battery can be controlled by an Oerlikon Skymaster system, an Airbus Defence Fortion IBM system, or others. In all cases, this involves receiving data from the radar/ELINT/ES, distributing targets between the SPU and SAM systems, and issuing missile launch orders.
Apparently, integrating the new IRIS-T SLM/X launcher with medium- and long-range missiles will not require significant modifications to other air defense systems. Essentially, only a software update related to the new munition and its technical characteristics will be required.
Commercial prospects
To date, the IRIS-T SL family of air defense systems has entered service with several countries. Egypt was the first customer for this type of system, receiving its IRIS-T SLM systems and placing them on combat alert in 2021. In 2022-23, various versions of the IRIS-T began to be shipped to Ukraine. Finally, in 2024, the medium-range systems joined the Bundeswehr's air defense forces. Several other countries have placed orders but have not yet received their systems.
The developer believes that all products in the IRIS-T SL series have significant commercial potential and therefore anticipates new orders. Furthermore, Diehl Defence plans to introduce a new long-range missile and an air defense system modified for its use in the near future.
The IRIS-T SLX missile is expected to attract genuine interest from potential buyers and improve Diehl Defence's position in the air defense market. However, to achieve this, the company must complete the development of the new project and showcase more than just the prototype SPL.
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