Nammo Begins Development of Dual-Pulse Engine for IRIS-T SLX Air Defense
Norwegian firm Nammo has initiated a new development project for a dual-pulse rocket motor engine intended to power the long-range IRIS-T SLX air defense system. The engine is designed to double the interception range of the existing IRIS-T SLM model to 80 kilometers, enabling engagement of fighter jets and long-endurance drones. Diehl, the German manufacturer of the missile system, targets a first safety integrity level firing test in 2027 and serial production in 2029. Nammo describes the project as entirely new, with no reliance on previous program designs, and plans to conduct static firings at its Raufoss facility to validate engineering models. The development aims to enhance European air defense capabilities, particularly within the European Sky Shield Initiative, and reduce reliance on US-made Patriot systems amid current shortages.