Ukrainian forces shatter records with German IRIS-T system

Ukrainians are the only ones in the world using the IRIS-T SLM systems in the conditions of armed conflict. Although this weapon had already demonstrated very high effectiveness, it had never before been possible to shoot down so many Russian cruise missiles in such a short time.

"We destroyed all targets within 30 seconds. The Russian cruise missiles were entering our zone one after another, and we immediately identified them as targets and attacked. We used one of our anti-aircraft missiles for each target. We operated with 100% accuracy," said the commander of the unit operating the IRIS-T SLM, as quoted by the Command of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

As part of Germany's support, several IRIS-T systems in the SLM version arrived at the front. This is a modern system that entered service in 2017, designed to combat various types of threats, including drones, helicopters, aircraft, and cruise missiles. Its range of impact is about 25 miles (with a target altitude of up to 12 miles). A complete unit consists of a launcher, radar, and command post. The radar range is up to 155 miles, but it depends on the type of target; for example, for a fighter, it is about 75 miles.

Ukrainian soldiers have previously spoken very favourably about these German anti-aircraft systems, emphasising that, alongside Patriot systems and NASAMS, they are among the most valuable weapons helping to protect key sites from Russian attacks.

"It is a modern and highly effective weapon. Before IRIS-T, we worked with Buk M1. [...] IRIS-T exceeded all our expectations. We have learned it well and already have significant combat experience. No one besides us in the world has used IRIS-T in such dynamic and large-scale anti-aircraft engagements," said the commander of the Ukrainian unit, who managed to achieve this record feat.