Germany has officially activated its new, high-tech missile defense system, the Israeli-made Arrow-3, marking a significant step in the Bundeswehr’s air defense capabilities.
According to German media, the system is now stationed in Holzdorf, Germany, and is described as the most advanced air defense system in the German Armed Forces.
An initial contingent, including missiles, radar systems, and control technology, has already been deployed, with additional modules planned. Official approval for full operational deployment will be given on Wednesday by Inspector General Carsten Breuer and Air Force Inspector Holger Neumann.
Key Capabilities
The Arrow-3 system allows Germany, for the first time, to intercept enemy missiles outside the atmosphere before they reach German territory. The system was developed in Israel and represents an investment of approximately €4 billion from Germany’s special defense fund.
SPD defense expert Falko Droßmann welcomed the development, stating:
“With the deployment of Arrow-3, Germany gains protection against ballistic missile threats. In light of tensions with Russia, this is an important signal. The Bundeswehr now has the ability to provide early warnings and intercept long-range incoming missiles.”
International Significance
A delegation from Israel has traveled to Germany to participate in a ceremony marking the initial operational capability of Arrow-3 for the German Air Force. This marks the first time Israel has delivered its advanced air defense system to another country.
The €4 billion ($4.6 billion) sale of Arrow-3 to Germany, signed in September 2023, is considered Israel’s largest defense export deal in history.
The Arrow-3 system is designed to destroy ballistic missiles while they are still outside the atmosphere and has reportedly intercepted hundreds of ballistic missiles fired at Israel by Iran and Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen during ongoing conflicts.
