Diehl Defence GmbH & Co.KG

Air defence systems are used to protect the population, important buildings, objects as well as ground troops against attacks from the air. Particularly ground-based air defence is capable of providing continuous area protection over the long term. For the Bundeswehr´s Tactical Air Defence System (TLVS), Diehl Defence developed the surface-launched IRIS-T SL, an upgraded version of the IRIS-T missile equipping fighter aircraft of numerous countries worldwide. In combination with various radar and command systems, IRIS-T SL offers the capabilities and benefits of an advanced air defence system. An entire IRIS-T SLM system was tested successfully for the first time in 2014 in the presence of international representatives.

Within the HYDEF study Diehl Defence develops a multistage interceptor to engage ballistic missiles and hypersonic targets at endo-atmospheric altitudes. The boost and cruise stage delivers the upper stage on an intercept course, reaching speeds up to Mach 5. An advanced integrated infrared and radio frequency seeker adapted to endo-atmospheric conditions is developed. The upper stage’s divert and attitude control system, consisting of multiple thrusters, implements the necessary course corrections. For the system design, Diehl Defence will make use of available and proven components in order to provide the system in time and on cost. Here, Diehl Defence benefits from the experience in all areas of an air defence system from the IRIS-T derived ground-based air defence systems (SLS, SLM, SLX). HYDEF can be deployed on the ground as well as on maritime platforms.

The IRIS-T guided missile was developed as aircraft armament for air-to-air missions within a European cooperation program. The combination of thrust vector and aerodynamic control provides the missile with extremely high agility. An additional technological leap was achieved with the imaging IR seeker head in conjunction with intelligent image processing. Target designation is accomplished by airborne radar or via the pilot's helmet sight. IRIS-T´s outstanding features even permit engaging targets behind the aircraft as well as interception of opponents`missiles. In addition to the consortium partners Germany (pilot nation), Greece, Italy, Norway, Sweden and Spain, further countries worldwide decided to procure IRIS-T. It was selected as standard weapon for the Eurofighter, F-16, EF-18, Tornado and Gripen fighter aircraft.