**Ukraine to Receive 11 Additional IRIS-T Air Defense Systems from Germany**
In a significant boost to its air defense capabilities, Ukraine is set to receive 11 more IRIS-T systems from Germany. The announcement was made by Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev in an interview with European Pravda published on July 28.
According to Makeiev, out of the 18 total IRIS-T SLM systems ordered from Germany, seven have already been delivered. The remaining 11 systems are expected to arrive as production continues. Each system includes three medium-range SLM launchers and two short-range SLS launchers, making it a unified complex.
The IRIS-T system has become a key component of Ukraine’s air defense network. It is designed to intercept cruise missiles, drones, and aircraft, but is less effective against ballistic missiles. Makeiev acknowledged that only U.S.-made Patriot systems are reliably capable of shooting down ballistic threats like the Russian Iskander or Kinzhal.
**Germany’s Support for Ukraine’s Air Defense**
Berlin launched a major initiative in 2023 to support Ukraine’s air defense amid escalating Russian attacks, making Germany one of Kyiv’s top air defense suppliers. In September last year, then-Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Ukrainian forces had already used the systems to shoot down more than 250 Russian missiles and drones.
The IRIS-T SLM has a range of up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) and an altitude reach of 20 kilometers (13 miles), while the SLS covers 12 kilometers (8 miles) at a lower altitude. The missiles use infrared guidance and can be launched vertically, making the system agile and capable of protecting against low-flying threats in cluttered environments.
**Ukraine’s Push for Patriot Systems**
In addition to receiving more IRIS-T systems, Ukraine is also working with other European allies to secure Patriot systems. Makeiev emphasized the urgent need for more systems, stating that while Western partners are looking to procure five Patriot batteries for Ukraine, “we actually need ten or more.” The expansion of Ukraine’s air defense comes amid broader NATO and EU efforts to equip Ukraine with U.S.-made systems.
**The Cost of Patriot Systems**
A single full Patriot system can cost over $1 billion. Germany and the United States have agreed to deliver five Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, but Makeiev emphasized that more are needed. The push for more Patriot systems is part of a larger initiative announced by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier in July.
The development of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities is crucial in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. With more IRIS-T and potentially Patriot systems on the way, Ukraine can continue to strengthen its defenses against ballistic threats.
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