Fire Erupts at a plant making key defense missiles, toxic chemicals at risk

In Berlin, a fire broke out in Diehl Metall, a metallurgical plant that produces IRIS-T air defence systems and ammunition for them.

The plant stored dangerous substances, including sulfuric acid and copper cyanide. Residents have been advised to take special precautions, including closing windows and staying indoors to avoid potential poisoning. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

The IRIS-T SLS is a short-range air defence system that utilizes IRIS-T missiles. Originally developed as air-to-air weapons, their design was influenced by an analysis of the Soviet R-73 missiles.

Among the IRIS-T missiles users are the German Eurofighter Typhoon jets.

A key feature of the IRIS-T missile is its ability to control the engine thrust vector, enabling it to effectively target highly maneuverable objects. The missile can be launched in various modes, both before and after acquiring the target, making it a formidable option against Russian attack helicopters.