Ukraine has received a new IRIS-T launcher from Germany
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, announced this on his Telegram channel.
Ukraine has received a new IRIS-T launcher
According to the head of state, the new IRIS-T launcher arrived in Ukraine yesterday. Zelenskyy thanked Germany for its continued support and noted that thanks to the help of partners, thousands of lives had been saved. At the same time, he emphasised the need for further deliveries of missiles for air defence systems so that Ukraine has sufficient capabilities to repel Russian air attacks. The President also recalled that over the course of the week, Russia had launched more than 2,300 attack drones, nearly 1,560 guided bombs and 108 missiles of various types at Ukraine. According to him, the strikes targeted residential buildings, energy facilities and other civilian infrastructure.
Zelenskyy announced new agreements with Sweden
Separately, the head of state spoke about a new support package from Sweden. According to Zelenskyy, the agreements provide, in particular, for the reinforcement of the Ukrainian air force with Gripen fighter jets. Also this year, the PURL programme received new funding, support for which, according to the president, must continue. He noted that Ukraine is counting on both the United States and its European partners to strengthen its air defence.
Ballistic defence remains a priority
The President emphasised that the development of anti-ballistic defence remains one of Ukraine’s key priorities. In his words, a strong air defence system allows for better protection of the civilian population and reduces Russia’s capacity for aerial terror. Zelenskyy also thanked partner states that continue to support Ukraine and respond to Moscow’s attempts to expand and escalate the war.
What is known about IRIS-T
IRIS-T is a German air defence system designed to combat aircraft, helicopters, drones and missiles. The first versions of the system were developed as a replacement for the American AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles used by NATO countries. Following the start of the full-scale invasion, Germany transferred several IRIS-T SLM systems to Ukraine. They are used to protect cities, energy infrastructure and other critical facilities from Russian air attacks. One IRIS-T SLM battery consists of three launchers, each carrying eight missiles, and a separate command post. The system is capable of engaging targets at a range of up to 40 kilometres and simultaneously tracking multiple aerial targets.
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