Germany Buys Over 1,200 IRIS-T Guided Missiles

Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has placed an order with Diehl Defence for more than 1,200 guided missiles.

On December 20, Annette Lehnigk-Emden, BAAINBw President, and Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, officially signed a framework contract for the procurement. The swift realization of the contract was facilitated by the IRIS-T Project Management Office (PMO), located within the BAAINBw, to fulfill the increased demand from Germany.

The IRIS-T (InfraRed Imaging System – Tail/Thrust Vector Controlled) stands as the most advanced short-range air-to-air missile in Europe and is developed and produced under the leadership of Diehl Defence, in collaboration with industry consortium partners from Sweden, Spain, Italy, Greece, Norway, and Austria.

IRIS-T serves as standard armament for the Eurofighter/Typhoon and is integrated into multiple platforms, such as F-16, Gripen, Tornado, EF-18, KF-21, F-5E, FA50, and IAR-99. Its applications extend beyond engaging enemy fighter aircraft to countering both air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles. Noteworthy is its capability for pilots to successfully defend against rear attacks without altering the aircraft's course. The foundational missile is subject to ongoing incremental development, solidifying its role as a benchmark in its original air-to-air function.