On August 6, 2024, the Bulgarian Parliament made a strategic move to bolster the nation’s air defense capabilities by approving the acquisition of the IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Medium-Range) air defense system. This decision is a significant milestone in Bulgaria’s commitment to enhancing its military readiness under the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI). The approval follows a series of negotiations between the Bulgarian and German defense ministries, alongside Diehl Defence, which took place from July 22 to 24, 2024. The acquisition involves an initial purchase of one IRIS-T SLM fire unit, with an option to procure five additional units and an extended-range IRIS-T SLX unit by 2032. The total cost of this initial deal is valued at EUR 182 million. Notably, a portion of this expenditure will be offset by compensation received for Bulgaria’s donations of military equipment to Ukraine in 2024, with further compensation anticipated as more donations are planned for 2025.
The IRIS-T SLM system represents a critical component of the ESSI, a German-led initiative aimed at creating a robust, ground-based, integrated European air defense system capable of countering a wide range of aerial threats, including ballistic missiles. As of July 2024, the ESSI has seen participation from 22 European states, reflecting a collective effort to strengthen NATO’s Integrated Air Defence System and ensure the continent’s security against emerging threats. The IRIS-T SLM system itself is an advanced air defense solution, featuring a GPS-aided inertial navigation system, radar data link for command guidance, and an interference-resistant infrared seeker head activated in the terminal stage. Its versatility is further enhanced by the ability to integrate with various electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) guidance systems and AESA radars, making it a formidable addition to Bulgaria’s defense infrastructure.
Bulgaria’s decision to invest in the IRIS-T SLM system underscores its commitment to national and regional security, particularly in the face of growing concerns over ballistic missile threats in Europe. This acquisition not only strengthens Bulgaria’s defense posture but also contributes to the broader European effort to develop a cohesive and resilient air defense network under the ESSI framework. As Bulgaria continues to align its military capabilities with those of its European allies, the integration of the IRIS-T SLM system will play a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s airspace and ensuring a secure environment for its citizens. This move also positions Bulgaria as a key player within the ESSI, reinforcing its role in the collective defense strategy of Europe.
European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) is a project to build a ground-based integrated European air defence system which includes anti-ballistic missile capability. As of July 2024, 22 European states participate in the initiative. The proposal was made during the 2022–2023 Russian strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure and amid increased concerns about the limited European capability to defend against such threats as the Russian 9K720 Iskander ballistic missile systems deployed in Kaliningrad. In October 2022, fifteen European states signed a declaration to join the German-led initiative. The ESSI will use multi-layered defence, with the following systems planned: Short range (Skyranger 30), Medium range (IRIS-T SLM), Long range (MIM-104 Patriot) and Very long range /Eexoatmospheric (Arrow 3).
