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Missiles That Defend Ukraine Now Protect German Warships: IRIS-T Goes to Sea
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Germany has successfully tested a naval adaptation of the IRIS-T SLM air defense system from the deck of an F125-class frigate, marking the first demonstration of the land-based launcher integrated onto a major surface warship.
According to Defense Express on October 15, the test was conducted during the Maritime Firing Exercise 2025 and represents a significant step toward adopting the IRIS-T family of missiles for naval use.
IRIS-T SLM air defence system launch just mastered on the German frigate “Baden-Württemberg” (type F125) as part of the currently ongoing Maritime Firing Exercise in front of Norway's coast. Only 10 month of work from idea to the actual firing.
— SuperGAU (@thegauguy) October 15, 2025
CC: @AlexLuck9
Video: Bundeswehr pic.twitter.com/P3YFCLsWWg
The test involved the frigate Baden-Württemberg, chosen for its relatively limited air-defense capabilities. Manufacturer Diehl Defense confirmed that the naval demonstrator was developed in less than ten months from initial concept to testing.
The new anti-air warfare module installed on the ship’s deck is based directly on the land-based IRIS-T SLM launcher, providing a straightforward and cost-effective adaptation.
During the exercise, the system successfully engaged simulated aerial threats, confirming its operational compatibility with maritime platforms. Diehl Defense stated that the trials were conducted in close cooperation with the German Navy.
Naval integration of the IRIS-T SLM opens opportunities to unify air defense systems across German and allied forces. Using the same missile across land and sea platforms could simplify logistics, training, and supply chains.
Currently, the IRIS-T SLM—already fielded by Ukraine and other European countries—offers a range of up to 40 kilometers, while its extended-range SLX version under development is expected to reach 80 kilometers.
Comparable systems already exist in Europe, such as France’s MBDA VL MICA, which serves as both a shipborne and land-based air defense missile and as an air-to-air weapon for fighter jets. However, Diehl’s scalable approach may offer greater modularity for European navies seeking interoperable systems.
Earlier, Ukrainian air defense forces used the German-supplied IRIS-T system to intercept eight Russian cruise missiles in just 30 seconds, achieving a 100% success rate, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.
