How Ukraine could use additional IRIS-T systems from Germany: Expert opinion
Photo: IRIS-T (Getty Images)
Ukraine could use the forthcoming 17 IRIS-T air defense systems, which Germany will provide, to create a buffer zone in the north near the border with Russia. Additionally, these systems could protect critical infrastructure, stated aviation market development expert Bohdan Dolintse in a comment to the YouTube channel of RBC-Ukraine.
As the expert explained, 17 IRIS-T units represent a rather significant quantity. They could potentially allow for the creation of a buffer zone approximately 20 kilometers wide, stretching from the Chernihiv region to the Kharkiv region, and even partially covering the Dnipropetrovsk region.
"But there are two approaches. The first is to create a buffer zone, and the second is to protect specific targets that may be a priority for the enemy. Essentially, this could also protect a dozen medium or even large cities in Ukraine, but certainly not cities with a population of over a million," Dolintse explained.
Additional IRIS-T systems from Germany
Germany is providing significant support to Ukraine in the field of air defense. Specifically, the German government has already delivered three Patriot missile systems to the Ukrainian military, capable of shooting down ballistic missiles.
Additionally, Berlin is supplying its advanced IRIS-T air defense systems, which are equipped with infrared sensors for targeting and have a range of up to 40 kilometers.
On September 3, Reuters, citing its sources, reported that Germany plans to provide Ukraine with six more IRIS-T systems. The next day, Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that Berlin had ordered 17 IRIS-T air defense systems for Ukraine, which will supplement the seven batteries already delivered.
