Germany has agreed to buy the $4.3bn Arrow-3 missile defence system, which can intercept ballistic missiles at altitudes of up to 100km

Germany will be able to purchase Israel's Arrow-3 missile defence system. A declaration of intent was signed in Berlin on September 28, 2023.

Here's What We Know

The decision to purchase Arrow-3 is Germany's response to Russia's war against Ukraine. The deal will strengthen relations between Berlin and Tel Aviv. The agreement is valued at about $4.3 billion. It is the largest single defence contract in Israel's history. The funds will come from the Bundeswehr's $100 billion armament fund, which was established last year.

The German defence ministry says achieving full operational readiness is planned for 2030. At the same time, initial operational readiness will be achieved within about two years.

Israel's missile defence system has been in development since the mid-1980s. The first test launch was made in the summer of 1990. The United States was involved in the development, so the deal required White House approval.

Arrow-3 can shoot down medium-range ballistic missiles (3000-5500 km). The maximum intercept altitude is 100 kilometres. The missile defence system includes the Super Green Pine radar station, which can detect air threats within a radius of 900 km.

Source: Reuters