IRIS-T Missile Systems: A Multibillion-Euro Deal for Ukraine
The German defense contractor Diehl Defence has clinched a substantial contract worth €2.2 billion (approximately $2.5 billion) to provide IRIS-T missile systems and their corresponding warheads to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This agreement, confirmed by Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, includes the delivery of four comprehensive sets of surface-launched missile systems, complete with command centers, mobile launchers, and radar systems.
Once operational, the IRIS-T systems will enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities against a range of threats, including cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. Depending on their configurations, these missiles can engage targets located between 25 to 100 kilometers (16 to 62 miles) away, traveling at speeds up to Mach 3, which is roughly 3,704 kilometers (2,302 miles) per hour, and reaching altitudes of 20,000 meters (65,617 feet). This new addition will bolster the existing defense systems already playing a critical role in Kyiv amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Expanding Ukrainian Missile Defense
As of November 2024, Ukraine maintains six IRIS-T systems in its military arsenal, with plans to acquire an additional 17 units from Diehl by 2026 under previous agreements. Ukrainian officials have also expressed interest in tripling their order to meet increasing defense needs. In response to this demand, Diehl Defence has ramped up its production capabilities, ensuring they can deliver the necessary equipment in a timely manner to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Minister Umerov expressed gratitude towards international partners, stating, “We are deeply grateful to our partners for their leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine.” He emphasized that this assistance encompasses much more than military hardware; it signifies a shared responsibility and trust between nations working to ensure the collective security of Europe.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation with Germany
The announcement of this latest IRIS-T contract occurred during a meeting in Berlin in May between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. At this gathering, Chancellor Merz reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Ukraine, emphasizing a collaborative initiative to develop advanced long-range weaponry capable of targeting deep within Russian territory.
Merz stated, “There will be no range limitations, enabling Ukraine to fully defend itself, even against military targets outside its borders.” This initiative builds upon a previous $3.25 billion military aid package pledged by Germany to Ukraine, and complements the additional assistance of 4 billion euros ($4.5 billion) earmarked for the fiscal year 2025. Moreover, an expected €8.3 billion ($9.4 billion) is anticipated to be allocated from 2026 to 2029.
Long-Term Commitment to Ukraine’s Defense
In a funding update delivered in March, President Zelensky highlighted that contracts with the German defense industry mark a significant step towards securing long-term safety guarantees. “This signifies that agreements will now be reached with German defense manufacturers for the future,” he said.
Zelensky also stressed that Ukraine’s military forces are set to emerge stronger following the conflict, crediting Germany for its commitment to aiding that progress. The evolving partnership underscores both nations’ dedication to enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities as the war with Russia continues to unfold.
