Diehl Defence to adapt IRIS-T SLM for German Navy F125 frigates

Diehl Defence and Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) have signed a contract to adapt the IRIS-T SLM air-defence system for use on the German Navy’s F125 frigates.

The development project includes prototype construction and comprehensive test firings to ensure the system is fully integrated into the frigates’ existing architecture and capable of operating in maritime environments. The adaptation is intended to expand the self-defence capabilities of the Baden-Württemberg class frigates in response to the current threat situation.

A navalised demonstrator was previously tested aboard the frigate Baden-Württemberg during maritime exercises off Andøya, Norway, in October 2025. During these tests, three live missiles were successfully launched at night, marking the first functional connection between the ship’s sensors and the weapon system. The IRIS-T SLM system features a range of approximately 40 kilometres and an altitude coverage of up to 20 kilometres.