Today, the air forces of 13 nations rely on the outstanding capabilities of the guided missile IRIS-T
Diehl Defence enhances the integration capabilities of its IRIS-T short-range missile into fighter aircraft platforms by entering a partnership with MDSI, a leading innovator in payload integration. Under the partnership agreement, signed by the two parties on the occasion of the LAAD expo event in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) in early April, MDSI’s Platform Independent Stand-Alone Payload System (PISAPS) will be used for the integration of IRIS-T missiles into aircraft platforms that have so far been unable to utilize the full functionality of IRIS-T.
The combination of IRIS-T with PISAPS enables a rapid deployment of the missile type across a broader range of platforms, including legacy aircraft and unmanned systems, by streamlining integration through MDSI’s modular and adaptable architecture. By combining Diehl Defence’s combat-proven missile technology with MDSI’s cutting-edge payload integration system, air forces can accelerate capability upgrades without costly airframe modifications. This development is particularly timely as aircraft operators seek faster, more flexible ways to enhance operational readiness and interoperability across joint forces.
All in all, by now 20 nations have procured IRIS-T based products. IRIS-T in its air-to-air role is among the standard armament of the Eurofighter/Typhoon and Gripen and is integrated into the platforms F-16, Tornado, EF-18, KF-21 and F-5E. The missile can be used as effector against enemy fighter aircraft, as well as air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles.
“This collaboration represents a major step in expanding the operational reach of the IRIS-T missile. By partnering with MDSI, we’re enabling air forces to leverage the full potential of our missile system across platforms previously deemed as of limited compatibility – with unprecedented speed and cost-efficiency,” said Martin Walzer, Senior Manager Integration Programs at Diehl Defence.
“We’re proud to join forces with Diehl Defence to bring new levels of flexibility to allied defence integration. PISAPS was built to simplify complexity, and this partnership proves how rapidly we can unlock new capabilities – even on platforms once considered obsolete,” said Christian Steinø, CEO of MDSI.
