German Bundestag Approves Major Defense Procurements and Joint Development Projects
On June 26, 2024, the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag approved several significant defense procurement and development projects, strengthening Germany’s military capabilities and international partnerships.
Missile Systems: Brimstone and Stinger
- Brimstone Missiles for Eurofighter: The Bundeswehr can now conclude a framework agreement for several thousand Brimstone missile systems. The initial procurement includes hundreds of units at a cost of around 376 million euros, funded through the Bundeswehr special fund and the defense budget. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028. The package includes practice missiles, launch and test equipment, tool kits, and training resources. These missiles will enhance the Eurofighter’s capability to engage both stationary and moving targets on land and over water.
- Stinger Missiles Replenishment: The committee approved the purchase of several hundred Stinger missiles through the U.S. government, costing approximately 395 million euros. This procurement replaces the Stinger missiles supplied to Ukrainian armed forces. The Stinger missiles, also known as Fliegerfaust 2, are used by the German Army, Air Force, and Navy. They are man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) capable of engaging low-flying aircraft and targets at medium altitudes up to six kilometers away.
Defense procurement and development projects: German-Norwegian Supersonic Anti-Ship Missile Project
Germany and Norway are jointly developing a new supersonic long-range missile called Super Sonic Strike Missile (3SM) “Tyrfing” for their frigates. The project aims to create an advanced weapon system with features such as supersonic capability, improved mission control, and modern seeker technology. The Norwegian defense company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace will lead the development as the main contractor, with German industry involvement. The project will be funded through the Bundeswehr special fund until 2027 and subsequently through the defense budget. Development is expected to be completed in the early 2030s.
Additional defense procurement and development projects
- Military Trucks: A framework agreement for up to 6,500 unprotected transport vehicles in various load classes (3.5t, 5t, and 15t) was approved. The initial order includes a three-digit number of vehicles, costing around 313 million euros. These vehicles will be delivered starting this year.
- Firefighting Vehicles: New airfield firefighting vehicles for the Bundeswehr fire department, equipped with a 12,500-liter water tank and additional tanks for foam and powder. The cost is about 84 million euros, with deliveries expected between 2026 and 2029.
- Reconnaissance Technology for Fennek Vehicles: The Fennek reconnaissance vehicle and Joint Fire Support Team will receive state-of-the-art observation and reconnaissance equipment (BAA), including a laser target designator. This upgrade costs nearly 86 million euros, with deliveries expected between 2027 and 2029.
- Electronic Warfare Upgrade: The frigates of the Brandenburg class will receive an upgrade for electronic warfare capabilities, with an investment of around 103 million euros. This upgrade ensures the frigates remain operational until at least 2035.
Defense procurement and development projects: Communications Satellites for the Bundeswehr
The Budget Committee also approved the procurement of new communications satellites for the Bundeswehr. These satellites will ensure secure and reliable communication for the German Armed Forces, both domestically and in international operations. The project includes the development and launch of the satellites, as well as the necessary ground infrastructure. This investment is part of Germany’s broader strategy to enhance its military’s technological capabilities and ensure robust communication networks in various operational scenarios.
These procurements and development projects demonstrate Germany’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces, supporting its allies, and strengthening international defense partnerships. The new equipment and joint development initiatives will significantly enhance the Bundeswehr’s combat effectiveness and contribute to NATO’s collective defense efforts. The total investment for these projects amounts to nearly 600 million euros, funded through the Bundeswehr special fund and the regular defense budget. These decisions reflect Germany’s ongoing efforts to improve its military capabilities and meet its NATO commitments.
Source: BMVg
Further information on the Bundeswehr at vernetztesicherheit.de can be found here.
