IRIS-T SLM (C-UAS mode)

The IRIS-T SLM (Surface Launched Medium range) is Diehl Defence's truck-based, medium-range air defence system built around the IRIS-T missile family. In its primary role it defends against cruise missiles, aircraft, and helicopters out to 40 km horizontally and 20 km in altitude, with the infrared imaging seeker and data-link guidance providing high resistance to electronic countermeasures. Each battery comprises a HENSOLDT TRML-4D radar — capable of detecting fighter-sized targets at 120 km — and three launchers, each carrying eight ready missiles on an MAN SX45 8×8 truck chassis.

The C-UAS mode is a formally designated operational configuration that allows the same fire unit to engage high volumes of small UAS, making IRIS-T SLM a last-resort, high-priority layer within a broader counter-drone stack rather than a standalone drone interceptor. The missile's kinematic agility and imaging IR seeker give it a genuine capability against the miniature, manoeuvring targets that strain legacy surface-to-air systems. Integration into a counter-UAS architecture enables a dual strategy: IRIS-T SLM holds the high-priority and hard-to-kill layer while shorter-range effectors (GARMR, CICADA, HPEM) handle volume attrition below it.

The SLM/X upgrade path, announced in early 2026, extends reach to approximately 80–100 km range and 30 km altitude using a dual-mode IR/RF seeker and dual-pulse motor, while maintaining mixed-load compatibility with existing launchers. For GCC defence aviation customers — where protecting airports, oil infrastructure, and populated centres from both state-sponsored drone campaigns and precision UAS threats is a current operational requirement — IRIS-T SLM offers a NATO-proven, combat-validated system with a clear upgrade roadmap.