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Switzerland Finalizes CHF660 Million IRIS-T SLM Deal With Germany

This agreement bridges a critical capability gap left by delayed US Patriot systems by securing five ready-to-deploy units through the European Sky Shield Initiative.

Die Iris-T gilt als eine der fortschrittlichsten Kurzstreckenraketen weltweit. Deutschland hat sie bereits in die Ukraine geliefert. Nun greift auch die Schweiz zu.
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Das Flugabwehr-Waffensystem vom Typ Iris-T SLS, einer Komponente des Luftverteidigungssystems IRIS-T SLM, der Firma Diehl.

Overview

  • On July 23, Swiss procurement agency Armasuisse and Germany’s BAAINBw signed a contract with Diehl Defence for five IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defense systems.
  • The package includes spare parts, training units, logistics vehicles and infrastructure to ensure the systems are operational.
  • The first fire unit is slated for delivery by the end of 2028, with full integration across Switzerland’s air defense network by 2031 under the Bodluv modernization program.
  • Swiss officials cited rising threats from drones, cruise missiles and other aerial weapons after the US postponed Patriot missile deliveries first expected in 2026.
  • By joining the European Sky Shield Initiative, Switzerland gains a cost-effective, compact alternative that will complement planned F-35 fighters and any future Patriot batteries.