Latvia and Estonia will spend $1.07 billion to buy German IRIS-T SLM air defence systems, which can intercept missiles within a radius of 40 km

The previous day we wrote that Lithuania and Estonia would jointly order German IRIS-T medium-range surface-to-air missile systems. The deal will cost more than $1bn.

Here's What We Know

IRIS-T SLMs will be part of the pan-European Sky Shield initiative, which aims to create an air defence system for Europe. It's a German idea that emerged after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The medium-range surface-to-air missile systems are capable of providing defence against enemy cruise missiles, drones, planes and helicopters within a radius of 40 km. The maximum altitude of interception of air threats is 20 kilometres.

According to DW, the deal will be worth €1bn ($1.07bn). The agreement will make Germany Estonia's largest defence partner. Previously, this title belonged to the United States. For Latvia, this is the largest military purchase since independence.

All IRIS-T SLM surface-to-air missile systems are expected to be delivered within three years of the contract with Diehl Defence. The number of launchers, which may include 4-8 vertical launch containers, has not yet been specified. The complex, in addition to the launcher, consists of a radar and a control centre.

Source: DW