The IRIS-T (InfraRed Imaging System – Tail/Thrust Vector-Controlled) is a highly advanced short-range air-to-air missile developed for modern fighter aircraft
The IRIS-T is a collaborative project involving several European nations, including Germany, Greece, Italy, Norway, Spain, and Sweden. It is designed to serve as a versatile and effective air-to-air missile for combat aircraft
The IRIS-T is equipped with advanced imaging infrared (IIR) seeker technology that enables it to lock onto and track its target even after being launched, increasing its chances of hitting agile and evasive targets
The missile's IIR seeker provides all-aspect target detection and tracking, making it effective against targets approaching from any direction, including head-on or tail-chase scenarios
The IRIS-T's seeker can lock onto targets that are not directly in the line of sight of the launching aircraft, allowing the pilot to engage targets located at various angles off the missile's nose
The IRIS-T is designed for high agility and maneuverability, allowing it to engage agile and evasive targets effectively. It also has thrust vectoring control for enhanced maneuvering
The IRIS-T can be launched in both lock-on before launch (LOBL) and lock-on after launch (LOAL) modes, providing flexibility to engage targets in different scenarios
The missile is designed to resist electronic countermeasures and jamming, enhancing its effectiveness in complex electronic warfare environments
IRIS-T employs counter-countermeasures to counteract enemy electronic countermeasures and ensure that it can still engage its intended target
The IRIS-T missile is currently used by several European countries and has been integrated into their fighter aircraft fleets. It enhances the air-to-air capabilities of these aircraft in various combat scenarios