Breaking News
Germany Moves Forward with Arrow 3 Defense System to Improve Europe's Ballistic Missile Protection.
Germany has begun constructing the infrastructure required for the deployment of the Arrow 3 missile defense system, developed by Israel in cooperation with the United States, at Holzdorf Airbase, approximately 75 kilometers south of Berlin. This strategic project aims to fill a gap in Germany’s air defense capabilities by providing high-altitude interception against ballistic missiles, a capability previously absent from its arsenal. According to Germany’s military procurement agency, initial operational capability is expected by 2025, with full deployment planned by 2030.
The Arrow 3 missile is designed to intercept ballistic missiles carrying conventional or weapons of mass destruction payloads before they enter the Earth’s atmosphere (Picture source: US DoD)
Arrow 3 is an upgraded version of the Arrow 2 system, incorporating exo-atmospheric interception technology based on a "hit-to-kill" mechanism, allowing it to neutralize ballistic threats at altitudes exceeding 100 kilometers and at ranges of up to 2,400 kilometers. Each battery includes six ready-to-launch missiles housed in individual containers on a trailer towed by a military truck. The system is integrated with the EL/M-2084 Super Green Pine radar, which provides detection and tracking, as well as the Golden Citron battle management center and the Hazelnut Tree launch control system, developed by Elbit Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), respectively.
The Arrow 3 missile is designed to intercept ballistic missiles carrying conventional or weapons of mass destruction payloads before they enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Its deployment in Germany is part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), a program aimed at strengthening the continent’s defense against emerging threats, particularly in the context of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This acquisition reflects Berlin’s efforts to modernize its air defense systems and improve interoperability with NATO's defensive infrastructure.
However, European security discussions are increasingly shaped by broader geopolitical dynamics, particularly following Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency and his more conciliatory stance toward Russia. During his campaign, Trump questioned the U.S. commitment to NATO and suggested that European nations should take greater responsibility for their own defense. His position, along with a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy, has raised concerns in Europe about the reliability of American support, particularly regarding Ukraine.
In response to these uncertainties, European states are reassessing the need to enhance their defense capabilities independently of Washington. The European Sky Shield Initiative, which includes Arrow 3, has taken on increased strategic importance. Germany’s investment in missile defense aligns with its broader objective of reinforcing European security while addressing calls for greater strategic autonomy within the region.
Holzdorf will be the first of three planned Arrow 3 command and launch sites in Germany. Construction, expected to be completed by 2028, will enable a phased introduction of the system. Studies are also underway to determine the locations for additional installations in northern and southern Germany, where supporting infrastructure will be established later.
By integrating the Arrow 3 system, Germany is expanding its missile defense capabilities to counter long-range threats. This acquisition represents a significant step in Europe’s evolving security architecture and highlights the growing importance of defense cooperation among European nations. However, questions remain regarding Europe’s long-term reliance on the United States and the extent to which the continent can develop a more autonomous security strategy amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.