The Ukrainian Air Force has released footage showcasing the work of its air defense crews using the German-made IRIS-T surface-to-air missile systems, which have been in service with Ukraine since October 2022.
These systems, along with NASAMS, were the first Western-provided medium-range air defense systems to protect Ukraine’s critical infrastructure from Russian missile attacks.
“The NASAMS and IRIS-T systems were the first Western air defense platforms to begin safeguarding Ukraine’s key infrastructure against enemy missile strikes,” according to an official statement from the Ukrainian Air Force.
Ukrainian air defense personnel have expressed their satisfaction with the performance of the IRIS-T system. “It is a pleasure to fight using the IRIS-T,” one operator said, reflecting the positive reception of the German systems among Ukrainian forces.
Since their deployment, several batteries of the IRIS-T system have been steadily integrated into Ukraine’s air defense network, gradually replacing the Soviet-era air defense systems that are now considered outdated both technologically and operationally.
In some extraordinary cases, the effectiveness of the IRIS-T system has exceeded 100%, thanks to the skill and coordination of the Ukrainian crews, according to Defense Express. This level of success highlights the crucial role that these advanced Western air defense systems play in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to protect its skies.
Ukraine continues to bolster its air defenses with these modern systems as part of its broader strategy to resist Russian aggression and defend its critical infrastructure from further attacks.