The German company Diehl Defence presented the new generation of the short-range air defense system IRIS-T SLS Mk 4 during ILA Berlin 2026, according to information shared by the website Defence Blog.
The main distinguishing feature of the new version is the integration of radar, command center, and launchers into a single mobile platform. According to the manufacturer, the system carries up to eight missiles ready for use and was designed to operate autonomously, reducing the time required to detect, identify, and engage targets.
Mounted on a Mercedes-Benz Zetros 6×6 truck, the IRIS-T SLS Mk 4 has a range of up to 12 kilometers and interception capability at altitudes of up to 6 kilometers. Diehl also stated that future versions are expected to incorporate the ability to fire on the move, allowing ground units to maintain continuous air defense protection during advances or movements.
The IRIS-T family has gained international prominence for its combat performance and has been acquired by several European countries. Diehl is expanding its production to meet growing demand while developing longer-range variants, such as the IRIS-T SLX.
With the SLS Mk 4, the company aims to fill an important gap in short-range air defense, offering a highly mobile solution to accompany mechanized forces and respond quickly to threats that are emerging increasingly close to the front line.
Photo: Diehl Defence. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
