The US government has approved the delivery of 600 Patriot missiles to Germany. This advanced air defense system will strengthen Germany’s defense capabilities in response to current and future threats.
The US government has given the green light for the delivery of up to 600 Patriot air defense missiles to Germany. The US State Department informed Congress of this decision, and the Defense Security Cooperation Agency provided further details. The estimated cost of this significant arms deal is around $5 billion (approximately €4.6 billion).
According to a statement, “The proposed sale will enhance Germany’s ability to meet current and future threats and increase the defensive capabilities of its military.” Lockheed Martin, a major US defense contractor, has been designated as the primary contractor for the deal, which includes the missiles, related equipment, and technical support.
Patriot system capabilities
The exact timeline for the missile delivery to Germany remains unclear, as deals of this nature typically span several years. The Patriot system, which stands for “Phased Array Tracking Radar for Intercept on Target,” is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world. It is capable of targeting enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. Germany, along with other countries, recently provided several of these systems to Ukraine to help the country defend against Russian air attacks.
Under the new NATO defense plans, Germany must quadruple its air defense capabilities to protect infrastructure and military forces in the event of serious tensions or war, according to security sources last month. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Germany has sent three Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv, leaving the country with nine units. During the Cold War, when West Germany was on NATO’s front line, the Bundeswehr had 36 such systems.
Earlier this year, several NATO members, including Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Spain, announced an order for up to 1,000 Patriot systems. It is expected that Germany will use this new order to replenish its own stocks and continue supplying Ukraine with these critical defense systems.
Current air defense systems of Germany
Germany’s air defense capabilities are considered robust and multifaceted, incorporating several advanced systems. The primary system in use is the Patriot missile defense system, which is deployed by various surface-to-air missile groups within the German Air Force. This system is designed to intercept and destroy incoming missiles and aircraft, providing a critical layer of defense. Additionally, Germany has developed the MANTIS (Modular, Automatic and Network capable Targeting and Interception System), which is a short-range air defense system designed to protect against artillery, rockets, and mortar attacks.
Another significant component of Germany’s air defense is the IRIS-T SLM (Surface-Launched Missile) system. This system is considered one of the most advanced in the world and is designed to protect cities and military units from air attacks. The IRIS-T SLM uses infrared imaging to identify and intercept targets, offering a high degree of accuracy and reliability. These systems, combined with Germany’s strategic vision for a comprehensive air defense network, ensure that the country remains well-protected against a variety of aerial threats.
