Diehl Defence and the Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support Federal Office (BAAINBw) have signed an adaptation development contract for the integration of the IRIS-T SLM system onto F125-class frigates in the German Navy inventory. Under the project scope, Diehl Defence will be responsible for prototype manufacturing and conducting comprehensive firing tests. These activities are critical for ensuring seamless integration of the system into the existing F125-class architecture and achieving maximum performance.

In October 2025, Diehl Defence participated in the "Naval Firing Exercise 2025" with a maritime-adapted system demonstrator of the IRIS-T SLM, originally a land-based air defense system. The air warfare (AAW) module was integrated onto the C deck of the F125-class frigate Baden-Württemberg, with the entire process from concept phase to actual firing completed in less than ten months. The system successfully met all established test and evaluation objectives.

The IRIS-T SLM is an air defense system developed and operationally deployed by Germany for its ground forces. The system is designed to provide effective protection against medium and long-range air threats. Its adaptation to maritime platforms will significantly enhance the German Navy's air defense capabilities. F125-class frigates are modern corvette-class vessels of the German Navy, and this integration will equip them with advanced air defense capabilities aligned with NATO standards.

From a Turkish defense industry perspective, this development represents an important indicator in the international air defense systems market. The adaptation of advanced systems such as IRIS-T SLM to maritime platforms reflects global defense trends. Turkey's own efforts in developing air defense systems, such as the HİSAR family, also include similar integration work. Air defense system integration onto maritime platforms has become a fundamental requirement for modern navies.

Through ongoing adaptation development activities, Diehl Defence continues to advance German Navy capabilities in a targeted and rapid manner. The integration of the IRIS-T SLM system onto F125 frigates will enable the German Navy to counter future air threats effectively. According to a statement by Diehl Defence, the contract resulted from close cooperation between the company's project teams and BAAINBw. The company stated that the adaptation work for F125 frigates will contribute to the German Navy's long-term air defense capabilities.