ILA 2026: Diehl Defence unveils IRIS-T SLS Mk 4

The IRIS-T SLS MK 4 offers a transporter erector launcher and radar which can operate as a standalone air defence system. (Diehl Defence)

Diehl Defence showcased a new iteration of its InfraRed Imaging System/Thrust vector-controlled Surface-Launched Short range (IRIS-T SLS) short range air defence (SHORAD) missile system, with an all-in-one transporter erector launcher and radar (TELAR) design, at the ILA Berlin Air Show 2026 held from 10 to 14 June.

The IRIS-T SLS Mk 4 is intended to offer a truck-based launcher for Diehl's IRIS-T SLS and CICADA effectors. According to the company the system combines the radar, command-and-control elements, launcher, and effectors onto a single wheeled platform, enabling standalone operation.

The launcher is based on a 6×6 Mercedes-Benz Zetros truck in a twin-cab configuration. To the rear of the cab, the effectors and associated support systems are mounted on top of the truck's flatbed. Two pairs of IRIS-T SLS containers are mounted at the rear and rest at an acute angle. According to Diehl, in this configuration, the IRIS-T SLS has a maximum effective range of up to 12 km and a maximum altitude of up to 6 km.

A gap exists between the two pairs of containers, within which a retractable mast housing a Saab Giraffe 1X radar can be raised to provide search capability. In front of the IRIS-T SLS containers, space is available for CICADA counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) interceptors. Diehl notes that a weapon station could be integrated.

For more, please see: EnforceTac 2025: Diehl Defence presents Cicada UAV interceptor