Switzerland plans to significantly strengthen its air defense capabilities by purchasing four or five IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defense systems from the German company Diehl Defense. This was announced by the country's defense procurement department Armasuisse. Negotiations on the deal are at an advanced stage, and the contract may be signed as early as the third quarter of 2025.
The IRIS-T SLM air defense system, developed by Diehl Defense, is considered one of the most modern and effective in the world. It is designed to protect against a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. For Switzerland, which traditionally adheres to a policy of neutrality, but strives to ensure its security in the face of growing threats, this purchase will be an important step in the modernization of the armed forces.
The purchase of IRIS-T SLM systems will be carried out within the framework of the European initiative "Sky Shield", aimed at creating a unified air defense system among European countries. This cooperation allows the participants to join forces to improve the security of the region and optimize defense costs. Switzerland's participation in this initiative underscores its desire to integrate into European defense structures, despite its neutral status.
The IRIS-T SLM is a medium—range mobile air defense system capable of hitting targets up to 40 km away and at altitudes up to 20 km. It is equipped with advanced radars and fire control systems, which makes it highly effective even in difficult combat conditions. The system is also highly mobile, which allows it to be quickly deployed to various regions to protect key facilities.
The acquisition of the IRIS-T SLM will be an important element of Switzerland's strategy to protect its airspace. In recent years, security issues have become particularly relevant against the backdrop of a tense international situation. The new air defense systems will help strengthen the country's defenses and increase readiness to repel potential threats.
Armasuisse expects to complete negotiations with Diehl Defense and sign the contract in the third quarter of 2025. After that, the process of supplying and integrating the systems into the Swiss army will begin. It is expected that the first complexes will enter service within a few years after the signing of the agreement.
The purchase of the IRIS-T SLM air defense systems demonstrates Switzerland's commitment to ensuring its security and readiness for modern challenges. This decision also strengthens the country's cooperation with European partners within the framework of the Sky Shield initiative. In the face of growing threats, such steps are becoming inevitable in order to preserve sovereignty and stability.
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