Slovenia Expands Air Defense Capabilities with Additional IRIS-T SLM Units via ESSI
As part of the ongoing European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), Slovenia has procured two more IRIS-T SLM fire units from Diehl Defence. The acquisition expands on its initial purchase of one medium-range air defense system in January 2024.
The latest contract includes radars, tactical command centers, missile launchers, IRIS-T SLM interceptors, and a full support package comprising a mobile workshop, spare parts, and reloading vehicles. Facilitated by Germany’s federal arms procurement office (BAAINBw), the agreement was finalized in July and publicly announced in August. Diehl highlighted it as the first follow-up order under the ESSI program.
ESSI was launched in response to increased aerial threats following the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. Spearheaded by Germany, it aims to build a multi-layered, interoperable European air defense network through joint procurement and operational synergy among NATO members and partners. More than 20 European countries have joined the initiative. In July, Switzerland acquired five IRIS-T SLM units, further expanding the network.
The IRIS-T SLM system offers robust protection against a variety of threats—including drones, cruise missiles, and fixed- or rotary-wing aircraft—via its 360-degree defense capabilities. It is equipped with Hensoldt’s TRML-4D radar and uses launchers mounted on Rheinmetall MAN 8×8 trucks, each loaded with eight ready-to-launch missiles. Each missile can intercept targets up to 40 kilometers away and at altitudes reaching 20 kilometers.
