Evolution of IRIS-T

IRIS-T - Europe's air-to-air solution

Born from a European consortium, IRIS-T (Infra-Red Imaging System – Thrust Vector Controlled) delivers the decisive advantage that once answered the threats of rival superpowers. At the same time it stands as the benchmark for seamless cooperation across the continent. With more than 20 customer nations and over 5,000 missiles already under contract, the system has proven its reliability at a global stage. 

The heart of IRIS-T is an unrivalled image-generating, jam-resistant IR-seeker that ensures a high hit-probability and superior target-tracking. Combined with 360° thrust-vector control it can strike threats from any angle. 

Prime contractor Diehl Defence ensures top-tier quality from design to sustainment. IRIS-T isn’t just a missile, it’s a symbol of European strength, cooperation, and for a secure future.

IRIS-T SLS 

Redifined air superiority from the ground

The original IRIS-T air-to-air missile has undergone a decisive evolution: IRIS-T Surface-Launched Short-Range // IRIS-T SLS

Using the unchanged missile and identical logistics chain, the use of IRIS-T missiles  eliminates redundant flight hours, lowers operational costs, and keeps the same unrivalled performance eye-on-target.

• Same missile, same inventory, same logistics – one set of spare parts, one supply chain, one training.
• Save flight hours, extend fleet life – no more lofted trajectory launches; ground-based launchers patrol the horizon with 100 % efficiency
• Unmatched performance – IRIS-T SLS brings the outstanding IR-seeker and highest hit probability straight to the field 

It's more than a cost-saving; it's a statement

IRIS-T SLS redefines ground-based air superiority, re-affirms the European consensus on joint defence solutions, and demonstrates that the continent’s consortium is effective, and forward-thinking. Already combat-proven and contracted by multiple nations, IRIS-T SLS amplifies air defence networks with precision, availability, and the excellence of European engineering.

IRIS-T SLM 

cutting-edge interceptor

Designed for mission-critical scenarios, IRIS-T SLM (Surface Launched Medium) delivers the precision and reliability required to ensure decisive outcomes in complex engagements.

Deployed to secure the medium-range airspace, IRIS-T SLM provides a 40 km intercept range and a 20 km altitude coverage with highest precision. During the endgame, its outstanding IR-seeker ensures a highly reliable kill-point prediction.

As a true hit-to-kill platform, it is designed to maximize lethality on first impact, effectively neutralizing targets despite evasive maneuvers. Its maneuverability is among the best in the industry, enabling tight turns and rapid trajectory changes that can outmaneuver even the most agile threats. This capability results from a sustained, methodical refinement process that has established the IRIS-T family as a benchmark of performance. In the theater of air superiority, success depends on the absolute reliability of the interception capabilities – ensuring precision, promptness and excellent performance. 

The IRIS-T SLM is that guarantee, the benchmark against which every ground-to-air missile will be measured. 

IRIS-T SLX

Next-Generation long-range interceptor

The IRIS-T SLX is the technological evolution of the already combat-proven IRIS-T SLM. X stands for Extended Range (long-range air defence) – giving operators an unprecedented horizon of control. With the extra range, the SLX can not only strike incoming cruise missiles or aircraft, but also the source of the attack – the carrier or its escort force – turning a single missile into a decisive blow against both, target and cause.

Core Enhancements compared to IRIS-T SLM

• Range: 80 km interceptor range, > 25 km altitude
• Bidirectional data link – real-time target data and kill-command exchange keeps the missile on the optimal intercept path until impact
• Combined radar and IR-seeker guidance – dual-mode targeting delivers the highest direct-hit probability
• High IR/DIR resistance – adds to the SLM‘s already perfect resistance
• Expanded threat catalog – firmware and onboard algorithms now cover a wider spectrum

Providing the confidence that only seamless integration can offer, the new IRIS-T SLX is more than a missile upgrade; it is a decisive evolutionary step that ensures the long-term, future-proof capability of existing IRIS-T SLM platforms.

With SLX’s dramatically extended range, every operation gains a new dimension. Threats that were once out of scope now come within reach, expanding the threat catalog instantaneously while granting the crews additional engagement time. The circle closes: longer reach, more opportunities, decisive increase in combat effectiveness.

IRIS-T SLX integrates into current IRIS-T SLM environment without disrupting existing training, logistics, or command structures: Both systems use the same vehicle architecture, the same air surveillance interface, the same training, the same operators, the same processes, the same spare-parts chain.

By combining the SLX’s extended flight envelope with the proven precision of the SLM fire control, the system provides a significant leap in capability. This evolution enhances existing air defence architectures without requiring costly redesigns or doctrinal overhauls, effectively expanding established operational limits.

The SLX completes the IRIS-T capability spectrum. As a new, essential member of the family, it extends the operational reach and enhances the overall cohesion of the air defence network.