Germany’s New Air Defense Missile System for Submarines : 02/02/2025 49 Germany, EUROPE, WORLD, Naval Defense, GENERAL, DEFENSE, Railly News
German ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems announced the Interactive Defense and Attack System (IDAS) developed for submarines in cooperation with the Bundeswehr’s Diehl Defense in a press release published on January 23, 2025. This system aims to provide submarines with active defense capabilities against airborne threats while underwater and is designed to increase the survivability of submarines.
Germany’s IDAS concept
Design and Features of IDAS System
IDAS, developed under the supervision of the German Federal Bundeswehr Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), offers submarines an active defence capability, in contrast to traditional deep-diving or environmental evasion tactics. In particular, this system, which can operate effectively even in shallow or coastal waters, provides submarines with a significant strategic advantage.
Privacy and Operational Security
IDAS is designed to protect the stealth and operational security of the submarine. This system allows submarines to launch missiles without surfacing or exposing their sensors. This minimizes the risk of detection. The missile rises to the surface of the water, aims at the target, reaches cruising speed and hits the target with pinpoint accuracy.
Real-Time Fiber Optic Link and Targeting Systems
The missile images are transmitted to the operator via a real-time fiber optic link. The missile can be precisely controlled during navigation and adjusted to allow target changes or mission cancellation. This feature makes the system highly flexible and allows the operator to make dynamic mission adjustments.
Versatility and Advanced Technologies
The IDAS system is capable of performing multi-faceted tasks, not only defending against airborne threats, but also attacking surface targets and providing support to special units. The missile can perform precise attacks on land targets with GPS or satellite navigation systems. This makes IDAS a multi-tasking system that can adapt to various operational scenarios.
Missile Design and Integration
The IDAS missile stands out with its advanced technology propulsion system, solid-fueled engine that provides underwater trajectories and rapid surface acceleration. The missile’s compact design facilitates storage and launch in standard heavy torpedo tubes, while allowing rapid integration into existing submarine fleets. In addition, the launcher, equipped with an independent thrust piston, ensures smooth deployment with minimal impact on the submarine’s maneuverability.
IDAS has been successfully launched from the German Navy’s 212A-class submarines, proving that the system provides effective defence against airborne threats while maintaining operational stealth. Trials with the Royal Norwegian Navy have also confirmed the reliability of the system and underlined that IDAS is ready for full-scale deployment.