Russian Strike Destroys Ukrainian IRIS-T SLM Air Defence System Supplied by Germany
Latest Defence News
Russia
The Russian Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation has announced a successful strike on a Ukrainian IRIS-T SLM air defence system, comprising both radar and launcher components. This strike, conducted by Russian tactical aviation with artillery support, targeted the system provided by Germany, which has played a crucial role in defending Ukrainian airspace.
The video released by the Russian Ministry of Defence depicts the precise strike on the Ukrainian radar and missile launcher, positioned near a forest edge, presumably to conceal the equipment. This incident highlights the ongoing difficulties faced by Ukrainian forces in countering sophisticated Russian aerial and artillery assaults.
🇷🇺🇺🇦 The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that over the past 24 hours, among other things, another launcher of the German IRIS-T air defense system was destroyed. The hunt for Western air defense systems continues. - ISZ reports pic.twitter.com/gtWTgpe7ng
— Zlatti71 (@Zlatti_71) April 14, 2024
The IRIS-T SLM system, developed and produced by Germany’s Diehl Defense, is a critical component of Ukraine’s defense strategy. It is designed to counter aircraft, helicopters, maneuvering missiles, and guided weapons, offering 360-degree protection and the capability to engage multiple targets simultaneously. The system’s versatility is underscored by its deployment in both stationary and mobile configurations, including installation on vehicles like the MAN SX45 8×8 truck.
To date, Germany has supplied Ukraine with 12 IRIS-T SLM air defence batteries and an additional 22 IRIS-T SLS launchers.
