Russian Forces Neutralize German-Made IRIS-T Missile Systems in Ukraine

Russian military personnel destroyed a German-made IRIS-T missile system, according to an official announcement from the Russian Ministry of Defense.

The operation involved the comprehensive utilization of Russian aviation, artillery forces, and drones, leading to the neutralization of the Pelican radar system associated with the IRIS-T.

The Russian Armed Forces also claimed a significant victory over the personnel and military equipment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 136 regions. The Defense Department highlighted that the 3rd assault brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, a fuel depot, manpower, and military equipment were among the targets damaged during the operation.

The MoD released footage showcasing the destruction of firing points and positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the vicinity of the village of Spornoye in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). Russian FPV drone operators demonstrated precision strikes against enemy positions, underlining the effectiveness of the operation.

The ministry reported that Russian air defense systems downed nine HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems and destroyed 81 Ukrainian drones in a single day across the DPR, LPR, Kharkov, Zaporozhye, and Kherson regions.

Ukraine possessed seven IRIS-T systems, and Germany had committed to providing an additional eight systems in two separate packages announced in November 2023 and January 2024, with Latvia also pledging one system.

Diehl Defence, the manufacturer of IRIS-T, claimed a high success rate for the system in the ongoing conflict. "The IRIS-T SLM system convinces with its excellent performance in operational use in Ukraine. According to the customer, the system achieved a very high hit rate even during waves of attack with more than 12 targets," the company stated.

The IRIS-T SLM system, designed to counter threats from enemy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones within a range of up to 40 km and an altitude of up to 20 km, comprises a missile launcher, radar, tactical operations center, workshops, spare parts, and reloading vehicles. It is known for its high tactical mobility and efficient engagement of multiple targets with minimal personnel requirements.