FIRST LIVE-FIRE EXERCISE WITH IRIS-T SLM

BERLIN, OCTOBER 14 /SRNA/ - The German armed forces will conduct their first live-fire exercise with the IRIS-T SLM air defense system during military drills on the Greek island of Crete, the Bundeswehr said.

The system, developed by Diehl Defence and already used in Ukraine, will strengthen Germany's air defense forces' ability to engage airborne targets, the statement said.

German news agency DPA said the maneuvers also mark a step toward rebuilding the army's air defense branch, which was disbanded in 2012. The Ozelot system, designed to protect ground forces against low-flying aircraft, drones and cruise missiles, will be transferred from the air force back to the army.

German troops are conducting the drills alongside Swedish forces as part of the "Spartan 2026" exercise, which also involves the Patriot air defense system.

The main phase of the exercise begins today, with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also expected to attend.