The Danish Ministry of Defence has officially selected the IRIS-T SLM system from Diehl Defence as its interim Surface-Based Air and Missile Defence (SBAMD) solution. This strategic procurement, carried out through Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), was finalized with the signing of the contract by Diehl Defence CEO Helmut Rauch and BAAINBw Vice President Ralph Herzog.
The acquisition marks a major step forward for Denmark in bolstering its national air defense capabilities. The IRIS-T SLM fire unit is set to safeguard civilian populations, armed forces, and critical infrastructure from a range of aerial threats, including enemy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones. This procurement addresses a key capability gap identified by the Danish defence establishment.
“We are proud to have won Denmark as a further IRIS-T SLM customer,” said Diehl Defence CEO Helmut Rauch. “We look forward to supporting the Danish Armed Forces in their mission to protect their nation and to strengthening security across Europe.”
The agreement was concluded under the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), allowing for a fast-tracked, coordinated procurement framework among European allies. Denmark is now the eighth country to opt for the IRIS-T SLM system under ESSI, joining Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Sweden, and Switzerland.
System Capabilities and Strategic Impact
The IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Medium range) offers:
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A range of up to 40 km and altitude coverage up to 20 km
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360° protection through vertical launch capability
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High tactical mobility and multiple simultaneous target engagement
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Minimal personnel requirements and rapid deployability
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Integration with European supply chains for enhanced security of supply
Each fire unit comprises a missile launcher, radar, and tactical operations center, supported by spare parts, maintenance, and reloading vehicles. The system has demonstrated excellent performance in combat scenarios, achieving high hit rates even during complex attacks involving over 15 simultaneous targets.
With this procurement, Denmark becomes part of the growing network of 21 nations worldwide that rely on IRIS-T-based systems for air defense—whether in air-to-air or ground-based applications.
