Sweden procures further IRIS-T SLS systems

Diehl Defence has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for launchers for the IRIS-T SLS short-range ground-based air defence system. In addition to the SLS launchers, the contract also covers a comprehensive logistics package, including spare parts. With the new contract Diehl Defence will continue its long record of successful cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces.

Sweden is a long-standing IRIS-T consortium partner and has operated the IRIS-T air-to-air missile on its Gripen aircraft for many years. In addition to the air-to-air variant, Sweden fields the short-range ground-based system IRIS-T SLS and decided in June 2025 to procure seven units of the medium-range air defence system IRIS-T SLM. This acquisition will provide a modern, layered air defence capability that strengthens the protection of Sweden and contributes to European security.

IRIS-T SLS covers the so-called SHORAD layer for short and very short ranges. The system uses the standard IRIS-T air-to-air missile in an unchanged way. The highly agile guided missiles offer soldiers and infrastructure real 360° protection against missiles, attacks from aircraft and armored combat helicopters. Another advantage results from the multi-role capability of the IRIS-T missile which was developed with Swedish participation and has been used for many years in Sweden as superior air-to-air weapon on Gripen aircraft. In combination with the surface-to-air version, this represents an effective and cost-favorable solution for the set-up of an air defence system.

By now, the IRIS-T family comprises 21 user countries: They have already procured or commissioned the procurement of the air-to-air guided missile IRIS-T or one of Diehl Defence's IRIS-T GBAD systems and thus rely on the outstanding performance of IRIS-T based products.