IRIS-T (IR Imaging Sidewinder-replacement with Tail-control) is a German program for a new short-range air-to-air missile to replace the AIM-9 Sidewinder. The IRIS seeker was originally developed as a possible AIM-9 upgrade, but in 1994, the Luftwaffe decided to opt for a whole new missile with a new engine and airframe. The program began the definition phase in 1996, and transitioned to the engineering phase in May 1998. Germany has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Canada, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden to co-develop the missile as a Sidewinder replacement. Canada withdrew in 2001 but Spain took its place in 2003. The first test flight was conducted on 28 March 2000, and the first guided test flight on 14 March 2002. The German government gave production approval in February 2003. There are currently 3,150 missiles planned the six consortia countries with first deliveries to the Luftwaffe beginning in January 2006.
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