Germany negotiates purchase of thousands of long-range missiles

Germany is conducting negotiations to acquire several thousand high-precision, long-range missiles to enhance its long-distance strike capabilities and strengthen deterrence against Russia. The German Ministry of Defense is exploring various options to complement its current air-launched Taurus missile arsenal with ground-based systems.

Among the potential suppliers are the American defense startup Covenant, which produces Anthem cruise missiles, the Dutch company Destinus SA with its Ruta missiles, and the German-British startup Hypersonica, which is developing the HS1 hypersonic missile.

Additionally, German representatives are in discussions with Ukraine regarding the potential joint production and acquisition of the Bars hybrid cruise drone-missile. The Bars system features a jet engine and has seen development increases in range—up to 1,000 kilometers—warhead weight—up to 60 kilograms—and speeds exceeding 700 kilometers per hour. No formal contracts or specific quantities have been finalized regarding the Bars system at this stage.