Germany has transferred a third IRIS-T air defence system to Ukraine that is capable of providing protection from aerial attack for a medium-sized city, reported dpa.
The system comprising three launchers, a radar sensor and a generator, plus the associated missiles, was handed over this week, the Defence Ministry in Berlin said on Friday.
Ukraine will also receive spare parts and technical-logistical support for the IRIS-T ahead of more anticipated Russian missile attacks on critical infrastructure and the civilian population this winter.
Commenting on the delivery, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stressed Germany's continued support for Ukraine as its fights to repel Russian forces that invaded in February 2022.
"We can be relied on and we are doing everything possible. This war will not be forgotten," Pistorius said. The third IRIS-T system was "essential for the protection of Ukraine," he added amid concerns that the Gaza war could diminish international support for the country.
According to the manufacturer Diehl Defence, the IRIS-T SLM system provides protection against attacks by aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and short-range ballistic missiles.
Capable of hitting targets at an altitude of up to 20 kilometres and at a range of 40 kilometres, the system effectively creates a protective screen over a wide area.
- Germany
- Ukraine
- IRIS-T air defence
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
