Germany implements Israel's Arrow 3 missile defense system

BERLIN Germany has officially started implementing the Arrow 3 missile defense system, purchased from Israel, as part of efforts to bolster its air defenses amid ongoing security concerns following Russias actions in Ukraine. The Arrow 3 is engineered to neutralize long-range ballistic threats.

The initial components of the system were unveiled at the Schnewalde military base, located south of Berlin, with additional installations planned at other locations. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized that this marks Germanys first acquisition of early-warning and interception capabilities against long-range missiles.

By deploying this strategic system, unique among European nations, we are reinforcing our pivotal position in Europe, Pistorius stated. This ensures protection not only for Germany but also for our allied nations.

The purchase agreement between Germany and Israel was signed in September 2023, shortly after Israel obtained U.S. approval due to the systems joint development with the United States. Germanys Defense Ministry has estimated the total project cost at 3.8 billion euros ($4.4 billion). Spokesperson Mitko Mller indicated that additional system components will be installed incrementally.

Germany plans to incorporate the Arrow 3 system into broader NATO and European missile defense networks. Israel, which developed the Arrow series, has long maintained a layered defense strategy to shield its population from rocket attacks originating from Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran.

Author: Sophia Brooks