Berlin, Sept. 28 – The Bundestag Budget Committee approved a comprehensive procurement package on September 23 for the German Armed Forces, strengthening air power, air defense, and related capabilities through the national defense budget. This decision by the Bundestag supports modernization of the Bundeswehr with AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, Meteor missiles, and advanced air defense systems to enhance operational readiness across the Air Force, Navy, and Army amid evolving security requirements in Europe.
Two additional batches of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles will reach F-35A and Eurofighter fighters via the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program. The Bundeswehr will also obtain two special Meteor missile batches for Eurofighters, enabling tactics testing, technical evaluation, and radar modernization integration. These air-to-air munitions expand beyond-visual-range engagement options for German combat aircraft.
Naval adaptations of the IRIS-T SLM air defense system were approved for F125-class frigates to improve self-defense against aerial threats. The Army receives digital radio integration for Fennek reconnaissance vehicles plus upgrades of surplus units to Joint Fire Support Team standards. A second contract amendment advances the NNbS short- and very-short-range air defense system by adapting fire-control and missile modules to the Boxer chassis.
Additional measures include 70 mm rockets for Tiger and light combat helicopters, laser designators, an NH90 simulator upgrade, multipurpose combat boats, and a new Strategic Airlift International Solution contract for heavy cargo transport. Germany continues expanding IRIS-T missile stocks for ground and airborne platforms, reinforcing layered air defense for the German Armed Forces.