Berlin metallurgical plant fire raises alarm for air defense production

In Berlin, a fire erupted at Diehl Metall, a metallurgical plant that produces IRIS-T air defense systems and the ammunition required for them.

Stored within the plant were hazardous substances, including sulfuric acid and copper cyanide. Residents have been urged to exercise caution. They are advised to keep windows shut and remain indoors to evade potential poisoning. The reason behind the fire is still unknown.

The IRIS-T SLS is a short-range air defense system that employs IRIS-T missiles. These missiles were initially developed for air-to-air engagements, and their design was informed by an analysis of the Soviet R-73 missile's architecture.

Users of the IRIS-T missiles include the German Eurofighter Typhoon jets.

A key attribute of the IRIS-T missile is its ability to manipulate the engine's thrust vector. This feature makes the missile adept at intercepting highly agile targets. It is capable of being deployed in various modes, accommodating target engagement before or after detection. This renders it an effective countermeasure against Russian attack helicopters.