Diehl Defence and Greece’s Hellenic Defence Systems have renewed their long-running cooperation on the IRIS-T missile program as demand continues to grow across air combat and ground-based air defense markets.
The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding in Athens, extending a partnership that has supported IRIS-T development and production for more than 20 years.
The announcement did not disclose new production volumes or contracts. However, Hellenic Defence Systems manufactures key assemblies tied to Greece’s share of the program, reflecting Athens’ longstanding participation in the multinational consortium behind the short-range air-to-air missile.
Originally developed under Diehl leadership with partners from six European nations, IRIS-T has evolved from a short-range air-to-air missile into a broader family of air defense systems, including the IRIS-T SLS, SLM, and developing SLX variants.
Partners Expand IRIS-T Development
Development of the IRIS-T has increased sharply in recent years, driven in part by European rearmament efforts and the operational use of systems in Ukraine.
In March, Diehl signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Spain’s Indra Group to jointly develop and produce air and missile defense systems. The partnership combines Diehl’s experience with the IRIS-T missile family and Indra’s capabilities in radar, tactical communications, and command-and-control systems.
In January, Diehl said it planned to raise annual production capacity for IRIS-T firing units to as many as 16 within two years. The company also said missile output had risen tenfold since before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Earlier, in November 2025, Lockheed Martin and Diehl partnered to explore enhancements to Integrated Air and Missile Defense through the Aegis Weapon System, including the possible integration of IRIS-T.
