Denmark Secures IRIS-T SLM Air Defense System to Bolster National Security

Denmark Boosts Air Defense with IRIS-T SLM Acquisition

In a significant move to strengthen its national security, Denmark has finalized the urgent purchase of the German medium-range IRIS-T SLM air defense missile system. The contract was officially signed on July 29, 2025, with German manufacturer Diehl Defence. This acquisition is designed to enhance Denmark's air defense capabilities and close a critical gap in its Surface-Based Air and Missile Defence (SBAMD) infrastructure.

The procurement was facilitated through Germany's Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) on behalf of the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO). The decision underscores Denmark's commitment to protecting its civilian population, armed forces, and critical infrastructure from a range of aerial threats, including enemy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones.

Strategic Context and European Cooperation

Denmark's acquisition of the IRIS-T SLM system is a key component of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), a collaborative European air defense program launched by Germany in 2022. With this purchase, Denmark becomes the eighth country to adopt the IRIS-T SLM system under the ESSI framework, joining nations such as Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Sweden, and Switzerland. This participation fosters interoperability and allows for streamlined procurement processes among allied nations.

The urgent nature of this purchase is driven by the current geopolitical security situation and lessons learned from recent conflicts, highlighting the immediate need for robust air defense capabilities. The Danish government has allocated significant funds from its Acceleration Fund (Accelerationsfond), created in February 2025 with 50 billion Danish crowns (approximately 7.87 billion USD) outside the planned military budget for 2025-2026, to finance such critical defense procurements.

IRIS-T SLM System Capabilities and Delivery

The IRIS-T SLM is a highly advanced medium-range surface-to-air missile system known for its effectiveness in operational use. Key capabilities include:

• An operational range of up to 40 kilometers and altitude coverage up to 20 kilometers.
• 360-degree protection through vertical launch capability.
• High tactical mobility and the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
• Minimal personnel requirements and rapid deployability.
• Proven effectiveness against a wide spectrum of threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones, guided weapons, and short-range ballistic missiles.

Each IRIS-T SLM fire unit typically comprises a missile launcher, a radar system (such as the Hensoldt TRML-4D), and a tactical operations center, supported by essential maintenance and reloading vehicles. The system has demonstrated a 'very high hit rate' even during complex attacks involving numerous simultaneous targets.

Delivery of the IRIS-T SLM system to Denmark is anticipated by the end of 2026, with commissioning expected in the spring of 2027. This acquisition is part of a broader Danish strategy to rebuild its ground-based air defense, which also includes the acquisition of VL MICA systems and the leasing of NASAMS systems as interim solutions, aiming for initial operational effectiveness by 2026.