Frankfurt (Germany), 3 Dec. (LaPresse) – Germany today activated the first elements of the new Arrow 3 missile defense system, establishing for the first time a protection level capable of intercepting ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere. This was stated by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, describing the step as “a significant strengthening” of German and European security. “By obtaining early warning and long-range missile defense capabilities, we assume a central responsibility in the heart of Europe and strengthen NATO’s European pillar,” Pistorius said.
The Luftwaffe will announce at noon, at the Schönewalde/Holzdorf base on the border between Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg, the achievement of initial operational capability (IOC). This means that radar, launchers, and trained personnel are ready for limited operational deployment. This will be followed by the completion of full operational capability (FOC) with all functions active.
The system, produced by Israel and the United States, is a direct response to the growing missile threat, particularly from Russia. Arrow 3 can strike targets above 100 kilometers altitude, a capability previously absent in the Bundeswehr. Schönewalde/Holzdorf is the first of three planned sites. The conflict in Ukraine has highlighted the vulnerability of infrastructure to low-cost drones and ballistic missiles. Within NATO, it is estimated that European air defense capabilities need to be increased by up to 400%. Berlin has stepped up investments in the sector, including through the creation of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), which 23 countries have joined.
Arrow 3 consists of a command center, radar, launchers, and direct-intercept missiles. According to the manufacturer, it can neutralize long-range threats and vectors potentially carrying weapons of mass destruction by fragmenting the warhead at high altitude. This represents the largest military agreement ever signed by Israel. Germany is investing €3.6 billion and becomes the first country in the world, outside Israel, to deploy the system.