The German army is testing the IRIS-T SLM system in Crete, in a live-fire exercise also involving Swedish forces

The German military is testing the IRIS-T SLM air defense system on the Greek island of Crete on Wednesday, as part of the Spartan Arrow 2026 military exercise, which is being conducted with live ammunition. Swedish forces are also taking part in the exercise, whose scenario includes the use of the Patriot system.

The test marks an important step in strengthening Germany’s ability to neutralize medium-range aerial targets and rebuild its air defense capabilities. The IRIS-T SLM, developed by German company Diehl Defence and already used in Ukraine, can counter several types of aerial threats.

The first stage of the exercise begins on Wednesday morning, and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is expected to attend the event. At the same time, the Ozelot system will be transferred from the air force to the army. It is intended to protect troops against low-flying aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.

The German army’s air defense component was disbanded in 2012. Berlin stepped up efforts to restore these capabilities after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The German system is organized across several layers, with equipment capable of intercepting targets at different altitudes.