Ukraine has received a new launcher for the modern IRIS-T air defense system from Germany. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this, emphasizing that strengthening air defense remains a key priority amid continuous Russian attacks.
According to the head of state, over the past week alone, Russia launched more than 2,300 attack drones, nearly 1,560 guided aerial bombs, and 108 missiles of various types against Ukraine.
'Yesterday we received a new IRIS-T launcher. We thank Germany for its constant contribution to protecting people. Thousands and thousands of lives have been saved thanks to such strong support,' Zelenskyy said.
IRIS-T SLM is a modern German medium-range air defense system developed by Diehl Defence. The system is designed to destroy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones, and other aerial targets.
The system can simultaneously track and engage multiple targets, with an interception range of up to 40 kilometers. IRIS-T is considered one of the most effective air defense systems Ukraine has received from Western partners.
The president emphasized that the country needs not only new systems but also a sufficient number of missiles for them.
'We also need missiles for air defense systems to have enough capability to repel Russian attacks,' he stated.
Zelenskyy also announced new agreements with Sweden regarding another aid package that includes strengthening Ukrainian aviation with Gripen fighters.
Separately, the head of state stressed that ballistic missile defense remains one of the most important tasks for Ukraine.
'Strong air defense can provide more protection for our people and deprive Russia of its last advantage,' the president said.
He thanked international partners for their support and emphasized that further escalation of the war by Russia must have consequences, including through increased sanctions pressure and strengthening Ukrainian defense.
