Slovenia Orders Two Additional IRIS-T SLM Air Defense Batteries

Slovenia has placed an order for two additional IRIS-T SLM air defense missile systems from the German company Diehl Defence.

Diehl Defence reported on this.

The contract, signed in July 2025, was facilitated through the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI).

This allows for standardized joint procurement of weapons for NATO member countries and allies.

With this contract, Slovenia is expanding its air defense capabilities: the first order for one combat battery was placed in January 2024, and the new two batteries are set to include their own radars, command centers, four launchers, IRIS-T SL missiles, and logistical support – including mobile workshops, spare parts, and vehicles for reloading.

As noted by the company, this is the first additional delivery outside the ESSI framework, demonstrating the efficiency and responsiveness of this European procurement scheme.

At the time the contract was signed, the ESSI already included 24 countries actively developing joint defense logistics, standardizing training, maintenance, and operational procedures. Among these countries are Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Lithuania, and other European nations.

Diehl Defence positions IRIS-T SLM as a system designed to protect airspace at medium range – up to 40 km in distance and up to 20 km in altitude.

The system features full 360-degree airspace monitoring, the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously, high tactical mobility, and a minimal crew requirement.

Additionally, the vertical missile launch capability allows the system to be deployed in concealed firing positions, such as wooded areas or urban environments.

In real combat conditions, including in Ukraine, it has demonstrated an exceptionally high target hit rate – even during attacks involving waves of 12 to 15 aircraft.

Militarnyi previously reported that the Swedish government had announced the purchase of the German IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defense system.