BERLIN (AP) — Germany on Wednesday activated the first components of the advanced Arrow 3 missile defense system it purchased from Israel to bolster its air defenses in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Arrow 3 is designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles. The first part of the system has been installed at the Schönewald site in southern Berlin, with further locations to follow.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that with the new system, Germany has gained early warning and protection capabilities against long-range ballistic missiles for the first time.
“With this strategic capability, which is unique among our European partners, we are ensuring our core position at the heart of Europe,” Pistorius said in a statement. “Thus, we are not only protecting ourselves, but also our partners.”
Germany and Israel signed an agreement for Berlin to purchase the system in September 2023, weeks after Israel received U.S. approval of the deal. This is necessary because the system was developed jointly with the United States.
The German Defense Ministry estimates the total cost of the project at 3.8 billion euros ($4.4 billion). Spokesperson Mitko Müller said more elements of the plan would be implemented gradually.
Germany aims to integrate the system into wider NATO and European air defense efforts.
Israel has long relied on multi-layered missile defense systems, including the Arrow, to protect communities across the country from rocket attacks by Gaza or Lebanese militants and, more recently, Yemeni rebels and Iran.
