The German Air Force has conducted the first live-fire test of the IRIS-T SLM air defence system at a NATO training range on the Greek island of Crete, as part of efforts to complete its operational qualification.
Air Defence Missile Group 61 trained in operating the integrated system, which comprises a TRML-4D radar, a tactical command post and missile interceptor launchers. The system also participated in a wider exercise alongside German and Swedish Patriot air defence batteries and Stinger missiles.
The IRIS-T SLM can intercept aerial targets at ranges of up to 60 kilometres and altitudes of up to 20 kilometres, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and cruise missiles. The system has been in service in Ukraine since 2022 and is currently operated by ten countries. It officially entered service with the German Armed Forces in February 2026.
Its manufacturer, Diehl Defence, has highlighted the system’s high interception performance, underscoring its role in strengthening modern air defence capabilities.
