Slovenia Orders Two More IRIS-T SLM Units Under European Sky Shield Initiative
Slovenia has placed an order for two additional IRIS-T SLM air defense systems from Germany’s Diehl Defence, strengthening its role in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI).
This follows an initial procurement of one system in January 2024. The new package includes radar units, a tactical operations center, missile launchers, interceptors, logistics support, a mobile workshop, spare parts, and reloading vehicles. The deal, signed in July by Germany’s BAAINBw on Slovenia’s behalf, is the first repeat order under the ESSI framework, Diehl confirmed.
Launched after the 2022 Ukraine conflict, the German-led ESSI aims to develop a cost-effective, interoperable air and missile defense network across Europe. Over 20 nations, including Bulgaria and Switzerland, are involved. Switzerland recently acquired five IRIS-T SLM systems.
The IRIS-T SLM provides 360-degree protection against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones. It features Hensoldt’s TRML-4D radar for tracking and is mounted on a Rheinmetall MAN 8×8 chassis, with each launcher carrying eight missiles. The system offers an interception range of 40 km and altitude coverage up to 20 km.
