ÜBERLINGEN, Germany, Oct 19, 2026 – The German Air Force completed the operational certification of Diehl Defence’s IRIS-T SLM air defense system in mid-October 2026 at the NATO Missile Firing Installation (NAMFI) in Crete. After the certification firing, the IRIS-T SLM air defense system joined a tactical exercise alongside PATRIOT systems (GER/SWE) and STINGER/LeFlaSys systems.
Air Defence Missile Group 61 trained on integrating the TRML-4D radar, Common Tactical Operations Center (CTOC) and launcher equipped with the IRIS-T SLM interceptor. Sweden opted to procure IRIS-T SLM in 2025.
“The successful system certification firing confirms that IRIS-T SLM delivers reliable performance and a very high hit rate in operation. This is an important signal for the Bundeswehr and, consequently, for the ten nations that already rely on our air defense system,” said Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence.
Lieutenant Colonel Björn Klarl, Commander of Air Defense Missile Group 61 said: “Without the soldiers of Air Defence Missile Group 61, this first firing of the IRIS-T SLM in Crete would not have been possible. With a high level of readiness and professionalism, they quickly mastered the new system, acquired the necessary expertise, and carried out the launch safely and precisely. For our unit, this success is a significant milestone and a testament to the outstanding work of each and every one of them. At the same time, it marks an important step forward for Germany’s ground-based air defense.”
According to Diehl Defence, IRIS-T SLM has a system range of up to 60 kilometers and an interception altitude of up to 20 kilometers. The IRIS-T SLM system is designed to protect infrastructure and cities against cruise missiles, drones, aircraft and helicopters. The Bundeswehr received its first system in Sep’24. The NAMFI dates to a 1964 agreement between several NATO nations. Alliance partners have used the range since 1968.
Source: Diehl Defence
About Diehl Defence
Diehl Defence, headquartered in Überlingen, Germany, is a division of the Diehl Group that develops and produces guided missiles, air defense systems, ammunition and sensor technology for military and government customers. Formed in 2004, the division builds on decades of experience from predecessor companies. Diehl Defence employs about 4,600 people. Its portfolio includes the IRIS-T missile, air defense solutions, precision-guided munitions, training systems and support services. The company serves armed forces in Europe and worldwide and operates under internationally recognized quality, environmental and security standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and NATO AQAP.
