Diehl Defence Unveils Seamless Integration of IRIS-T SLM Ground Air Defense System
In collaboration with the German Air Force, Diehl Defence engaged in NATO’s Joint Project Optic Windmill (JPOW) drill, showcasing the seamless integration of its IRIS-T SLM ground-based air defense system. Diehl Defence received assistance from its partners in the IRIS-T SLM initiative, including Airbus and HENSOLDT.
The JPOW exercise unfolded in March 2023 at Vredepeel, Netherlands, primarily aimed at “Peer Adversary, Multi-Domain”. Occurring biennially since 1996, this year’s drill emphasized cohesive air defense and interoperability across all tactical command levels. Thirteen nations executed specific experiments and collaborative operations with their respective systems.
Regular updates among all participants enhanced the interoperability of the involved systems, both in operational and tactical domains, along with technical aspects related to data sharing. The seamless collaboration of NATO forces is crucial for effective joint reconnaissance, strategic decision-making, and coordinated actions.
Diehl Defence’s IRIS-T SLM system participated in this exercise as an “emerging system” under the direction of the German Air Force, overseen by both a German and a Dutch “Control and Reporting Center” (CRC) alongside a “Surface-to-Air Missile Operations Center” (SAMOC) command post of the German Air Force, among others.
The functionality of IRIS-T SLM was validated by assessing its connectivity, timing synchronization, and air situation sharing within the network. Managing the tactical data links needed for this, along with “command and control” evaluations, was also integral to the drill. Achieving this significant milestone in the program’s timeline will expedite the swift acquisition of the system by the German government.
