Denmark Bolsters Air Defense with Additional IRIS-T SLM Units Under European Sky Shield Initiative

Denmark Expands Air Defense Capabilities

Denmark has announced the procurement of additional IRIS-T SLM medium-range ground-based air defense system fire units. The contract, signed in Coblenz, Germany, on December 4, 2025, with manufacturer Diehl Defence, marks a significant step in strengthening Denmark's national air and missile defense capabilities. This acquisition is a component of the broader European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), aimed at enhancing collective European security against aerial threats.

The Danish Ministry of Defence had initially opted for the combat-proven IRIS-T SLM system in July 2025 as an interim air defense solution. The current contract is part of Denmark's 'Surface Based Air and Missile Defense (SBAMD) Permanent Solution,' designed to protect the civilian population, armed forces, and critical infrastructure from airborne threats.

The European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)

The European Sky Shield Initiative, spearheaded by Germany and established in October 2022, is a collaborative project to build an integrated European air defense system, including anti-ballistic missile capabilities. As of 2025, 24 European states participate in the initiative, with Denmark having joined in February 2023.

ESSI's primary objective is to enhance NATO's air defense capabilities through the joint procurement, use, and maintenance of relevant systems. This approach aims to create synergies, accelerate procurement processes, and ensure interoperability among participating nations, addressing vulnerabilities exposed by escalating missile threats in Europe.

IRIS-T SLM System: A Closer Look

The IRIS-T SLM is a sophisticated medium-range ground-based air defense system designed to counter a wide array of aerial threats, including:

• Enemy aircraft
• Helicopters
• Cruise missiles
• Drones

Each IRIS-T SLM fire unit typically comprises a missile launcher, a radar system, and a tactical operations center. The system boasts a range of up to 40 kilometers and can engage targets at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. Key characteristics include 360° coverage, high tactical mobility, the ability to deploy missile launchers effectively, and the capacity for multiple target engagements with minimal personnel. According to Diehl Defence, the system achieves a 'very high hit rate, even during waves of attack with more than 15 targets.'

Denmark's Comprehensive Air Defense Modernization

This latest procurement is part of Denmark's significant investment in rebuilding its ground-based air defense, a capability that had a 20-year gap. In light of current geopolitical tensions, particularly 'Russian belligerence in Europe,' Denmark is undertaking a considerable air defense ramp-up.

The Danish government plans to invest approximately 58 billion DKK (around $9.1 billion USD) in ground-based air and missile defense systems. Beyond the IRIS-T SLM, Denmark is also acquiring or leasing other advanced systems:

• National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) from Norway
• VL MICA systems from MBDA France
• SAMP/T medium-range air defense system from Eurosam for long-range capabilities

The first of these systems are expected to be operational by the end of 2025, with full capability projected between 2028 and 2029. Denmark is the eighth ESSI customer to choose Diehl Defence's air defense solution, highlighting the collaborative procurement benefits of the initiative.