Ukraine has taken an important step towards its goal of increasing its air defense capacity. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced on Sunday, March 9, 2025, that they signed a memorandum of understanding with the German defense company Diehl Defense to increase the supply of IRIS-T air defense systems and missiles. The agreement is considered part of Ukraine's strategic efforts to strengthen its air defenses.
Air Defense Cooperation Expands
Defense Minister Umerov said in a statement “Protecting Ukraine’s skies and cities remains our top priority. The signed agreement paves the way for large-scale industrial projects that will enhance our air defense capabilities.” used expressions.
According to the Defense Blog, the memorandum of understanding includes the supply of IRIS-T air defense systems and missiles to Ukraine. will be tripled. This development will significantly increase Ukraine's defense capacity against missile and drone attacks.
Umerov thanked Diehl Defense for its support to Ukraine, He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between leading global defense companies and Ukraine. Minister, “The free world is with us, and together we are opening up new opportunities to improve our defenses.” He emphasized the importance of international support.
Importance of IRIS-T Air Defense System
IRIS-T air defense systems, It plays a critical role in Ukraine's air defense strategy with its high-precision interception capabilities. These systems provide effective protection against both missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats. It makes a major contribution to increasing the safety of the airspace.
The new agreement with Diehl Defence aims to strengthen the Ukrainian defence industry and increase integration into the European defence ecosystem. In this context, It is planned to equip Ukraine with modern defense technologies and expand production capacity.
Germany Continues IRIS-T Support to Ukraine
During the ongoing war with Russia Germany continues to increase its military support to Ukraine. According to Bloomberg, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced on September 4, 2024, that 17 new IRIS-T air defense systems were ordered for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
According to information provided by the German news agency DPA, this order is as follows:
- 8 medium range (SLM) air defense systems
- 9 short-range (SLS) air defense systems
currently Ukraine has 4 IRIS-T SLM and 3 IRIS-T SLS air defense systems.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, These systems helped Ukraine destroy more than 250 Russian missiles and various types of UAVs, thus saving many lives. had stated.
According to a German official who spoke to Bloomberg, Ukraine It is planned to purchase a total of 2026 IRIS-T systems from Germany by 24. Their distribution will be as follows:
- 12 medium range IRIS-T SLM
- 12 short-range IRIS-T SLS
Ukraine Continues to Strengthen Air Defense
Ukraine's new agreement with Diehl Defense It demonstrates its determination to protect its critical infrastructure and cities by increasing its air defense capabilities. Germany's increased support for IRIS-T in Ukraine shows that Europe will cooperate more closely with Ukraine in the field of defense.
These developments, It is seen as an important step towards making Ukraine's airspace more secure and integrating into the European defense ecosystem.
