Germany approves IRIS-T SLM adaptation for F125 frigates, other procurements

Germany's parliamentary budget committee approved adapting the IRIS-T SLM ground-based air-defense system for the Navy's four F125 frigates. The decision follows a 2025 demonstration aboard Baden-Württemberg and supports a maritime configuration able to counter aircraft, cruise missiles and other airborne threats at ranges around 40 kilometers. Funding was also cleared for other defense projects, but the frigate effort is notable because it offers a relatively rapid way to improve ship self-defense by drawing on a missile family already being expanded for Germany's land-based air-defense network.