Diehl Defense and POLARIS create a new AirLAS attack UAV system based on IRIS-T missiles

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As part of the Paris Air Show 2025, two leading German companies — Diehl Defense and POLARIS Raumflugzeuge GmbH — signed an exclusive agreement to develop an innovative unmanned aerial attack platform. The aim of the collaboration was to create a system combining the combat-proven IRIS-T missile and a reusable unmanned aerial vehicle from POLARIS.

The new program is called the Airborne Launching and Attack System (AirLAS). Its main task is to expand the operational capabilities of modern air defense systems and provide high flexibility in responding to aerial threats.

According to a joint statement, Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defense, and Dr. Alexander Kopp, CEO of POLARIS, noted that the project combines the advanced technologies of the two companies to create a new generation of shock systems.

The POLARIS drone will be modified to carry and launch IRIS-T missiles, known for their high maneuverability and ability to hit targets from any angle. Such integration will allow the UAV to be used as a mobile and autonomous platform for delivering pinpoint strikes against air targets beyond the reach of ground-based air defense systems.

Main features of the AirLAS system:

- Increased range of action: due to the aerial launch of the missile, the affected area is significantly expanded;

- Mobility and stealth: the drone can operate independently or as part of a group;

- Integration with existing systems: AirLAS can be adapted to current and future air defense architectures;

- Reusable: reducing the cost of operations and increasing efficiency;

- High combat effectiveness: the use of air-to-air missiles of the latest generation.

This project marks an important step in the development of the European defense industry, aimed at creating technologically independent solutions in the face of growing threats and tensions in Europe and other regions.

It is expected that the first flight tests of AirLAS will begin in the coming years, and mass production will start by the end of the decade. If all goes according to plan, the system will become a key element of future multi-layered air and missile defense systems.