The word historic has echoed in the ceremony this week as Germany and Israel formalized a defense agreement between Boris Pistorius and Yoav Galant. The plan centers on delivering Arrow 3 missiles to Berlin to bolster Berlin’s shield against potential threats, with integration slated to begin in 2025 as part of a broader NATO defense framework. Pistorius called the signing a historic milestone for both nations, underscoring a record arms commitment within the sector as a key move for Israel’s defense exports. The contract’s headline figure is 3.3 billion euros, reflecting the scale of Germany’s purchase and the pivotal role of the supplier country in this defense partnership.
Russia’s aggression in Ukraine underscored the strategic significance of robust air defense for Germany and for Europe, according to Pistorius. The German minister, representing the Social Democratic Party, noted that Arrow 3’s procurement also highlights the evolving depth of bilateral cooperation. Wolfgang Scholz, the German chancellor, echoed similar sentiments about the magnitude of the collaboration and its strategic implications.
The Israeli defense leadership likewise emphasized the historical dimension of the arms relationship. Germany’s commitment to Israel’s right to self defense was reaffirmed, with Galant stressing that Israel now contributes to meeting Germany’s defense needs as a strategic partner. Nearly eight decades after the Holocaust, Galant described the current period as a meaningful moment for Jewish communities everywhere.
The signing took place at the German Ministry of Defense in Bendler Block, a site with a profound historical resonance tied to the 20th century’s dramatic events, including resistance to Nazi rule. The setting underscored the broader context in which postwar defense collaboration is taking shape.
Israel’s high competitiveness
Beyond the historical references, the agreement demonstrates the strength and competitiveness of Israel’s arms industry. Arrow 3 is described as a leading anti-aircraft defense system capable of intercepting missiles before they enter the atmosphere and engaging targets from substantial stand-off ranges surrounding hundreds of kilometers. The Israeli Army has operated Arrow 3 since 2017, with production a joint effort between Israel Aerospace Industries and American Boeing. The involvement of Boeing required prior authorization from the United States, which was granted in mid-August.
The contract covers an initial payment of 600 million euros as part of the total 3.3 billion euros. Deployment is planned to begin in 2025, with the system integrated into a broader Atlantic Alliance shield and coordinated with Europe’s security framework. While Germany aimed to accelerate deployment to support its European Sky Shield concept and align with a network of European partners, concerns about the pace and scope of European investment were discussed. Berlin sought a swift implementation to avoid delays in developing comparable capabilities, as described in the broader European defense strategy.