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Switzerland has signed a contract to purchase five IRIS-T SLM medium-range ground-based air defense (GBAD MR) systems from Germany’s Diehl Defense. The contract, valued at approximately $574 million, is part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI).

The agreement, officially signed by National Armaments Director Urs Loher on behalf of Switzerland and the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support of the German Armed Forces (BAAINBw), was approved by the Swiss Federal Council.

“This marks an important milestone for the integrated air defense of Switzerland,” stated Loher during the signing ceremony, emphasizing the strategic importance of this deal in closing a significant capability gap in the country’s air defense network.

Growing focus on air defense in Europe

Switzerland’s move comes amid heightened security concerns across Europe in recent years, with the war in Ukraine reigniting discussions over territorial airspace protection and missile defense systems.

The European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), launched in 2022 and spearheaded by Germany, aims to strengthen collective European air defense against evolving aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and advanced fighter aircraft. Switzerland’s participation in ESSI represents both a national and continental effort to strengthen security architecture in the face of emerging challenges.

📌armasuisse Switzerland procures IRIS-T SLM

The contract provides for the delivery of five IRIS-T SLM systems and other services. The signing of the agreement was preceded by Switzerland joining to the European Sky Shield Initiative.

Press release: https://t.co/Mmq1jwEzgO pic.twitter.com/8LNOTuApKp

— Diehl Defence (@DiehlDefence) July 22, 2025

Switzerland, a historically neutral country, has been steadily modernizing its defense infrastructure in the wake of the current trend spanning all over Europe and the Western world.

The recent purchase complements earlier acquisitions such as the F-35A fighter jets and the long-range Patriot missile system. With the procurement of the IRIS-T SLM, Switzerland is reinforcing its medium-range defense layer, critical in intercepting a variety of air threats before they reach populated or strategic areas.

IRIS-T SLM System Capabilities

The IRIS-T SLM is a state-of-the-art, combat-proven air defense system developed and manufactured in Germany. Known for its exceptional performance in real-world combat environments, including deployment in Ukraine, the system offers a comprehensive defense solution capable of addressing diverse aerial threats.

The IRIS-T SLM system boasts several advanced features that enhance its effectiveness as a ground-based air defense solution. It has an interception range of up to 40 kilometers and can neutralize aerial threats at altitudes reaching 20 kilometers.

A critical component of its capability is the integration of an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, specifically the TRML-4D sensor developed by Hensoldt, which enables the system to simultaneously track and engage multiple targets with high precision. Additionally, the system’s modular and open architecture ensures seamless compatibility with existing Swiss defense infrastructure while allowing for future upgrades and integration of new technologies.

These features make the IRIS-T SLM a robust response to the modern threat environment, particularly as drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions more prevalent on the global battlefield.

Procurement and implementation timeline

Switzerland’s acquisition of the IRIS-T SLM system is part of its Ground-Based Air Defense Medium Range (GBAD MR) project, which was launched in 2019 and has now entered its conceptual phase. The overall procurement is scheduled to be completed by 2032, with fast-track procedures in place to ensure that capabilities are delivered on time in response to evolving threat perceptions.

According to the current timeline, career military personnel will begin training on the system in 2027, followed by the delivery of the first fire unit in late 2028. The remaining fire units and logistical components will be delivered between 2029 and 2031, while training for militia personnel is planned to commence in 2029. The project is expected to reach full operational capability (FOC) by 2032.

In addition to the five fire units, the procurement package includes guided missiles, spare parts, mobile repair vehicles, logistics trucks, test equipment, and maintenance tools. A dedicated training station will also be established for the Swiss Armed Forces to facilitate operational readiness. Early training is scheduled to begin in 2027 to ensure a smooth transition to the new system, with supporting infrastructure for training and logistics being developed in parallel with system deliveries.

The new system will replace Switzerland’s ageing short-range anti-aircraft gun systems, which are scheduled for retirement. Notably, the IRIS-T SLM is designed to enhance Switzerland’s ability to counter geospatial cruise missile threats and deliver early warning against incoming rocket, mortar, and artillery attacks. This modern layer of defense is expected to serve as a critical shield for Swiss airspace, urban centers, and vital infrastructure.

Moreover, the IRIS-T SLM will act as a technological bridge between Switzerland’s existing capabilities and its incoming arsenal of F-35A fighter jets and Patriot systems, helping to create a multi-layered air defense network covering short-, medium-, and long-range threats.

Financial and Industrial Aspects

The Federal Council approved a guarantee credit of 758 million for the GBAD MR program as part of the 2024 armament budget. An additional $11.5 million from the PEB credit has been allocated for system development, testing, and procurement preparation.

As part of the deal, an offset agreement has been signed between Armasuisse (the Swiss defense procurement agency) and Diehl Defense. This mandates Diehl to carry out industrial compensation measures by engaging with Swiss firms, ensuring economic returns and industrial collaboration within Switzerland. Such industrial participation is standard practice for Armasuisse, aimed at bolstering domestic technological expertise and maintaining national security interests.

Strategic significance implications

The IRIS-T SLM deal underscores Switzerland’s evolving defense posture in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment. While the country remains non-aligned, it is investing in high-end defensive capabilities and contributing to collective European security efforts.

This procurement also demonstrates Switzerland’s trust in German defense manufacturing and its confidence in joint procurement frameworks. By opting for Germany’s standard system configuration with only minor adaptations, Switzerland aims to streamline the integration process and ensure interoperability.

With initial operational capability planned as soon as feasible and full readiness expected by the early 2030s, Switzerland’s skies are set to be significantly better protected in the years ahead. The IRIS-T SLM will not only plug critical defense gaps but also represent a leap forward in technology and strategic preparedness.