Switzerland has strengthened its defenses by acquiring five IRIS-T SLM air-defense systems as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative, with a 660 million Swiss Franc ($832 million) credit guarantee approved. The IRIS-T SLM, made by Diehl Defence, defends against jets, helicopters, and cruise missiles up to 40km range and 20km altitude. Nine nations, including Germany and Ukraine, have chosen this system.
Denmark is boosting its surveillance with four MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones, gaining delivery by 2029 along with ground stations and US-based training. The purchase, reportedly budgeted at 370 million euros ($434 million), is part of a NATO partnership to share procurement, reduce costs, and improve cooperation.
India received the first three out of six Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters under a 2017 contract, deploying them to Jodhpur for regional security. These advanced attack helicopters feature next-gen defensive suites, can fly up to 300km/h, and have a 500km range. The Indian Air Force now operates 22 Apaches in two squadrons.
