Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces
Helsing is already producing 6,000 HX-2 drones for use in Ukraine. (Photo: Helsing)
Contracts for the procurement of two platforms have been signed, and will be tested by the German armed forces.
The German armed forces have signed contracts to purchase loitering munitions, after it was reported by Reuters on 4 April that an order was soon to be signed as part of a concerted effort to upgrade the country’s defence capabilities.
The first batch of loitering munitions, otherwise known as kamikaze drones, has been purchased and will be tested for suitability by the armed forces.
Longer-term contracts could be signed by the end of 2025 for a larger procurement order, following the contract with two companies for the initial first batch of drones, according to local German media citing Ministry of Defence sources.
Based on comparable
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Singapore’s interest in GCAP reflects its long-term approach to air power]()
Singapore’s interest in GCAP reflects its long-term approach to air power
A potential interest in joining GCAP is indicative of Singapore’s long-term and methodical approach to defence procurement and could benefit its local defence industry.
-
![Extending mission readiness: where XR adds real value in pilot, crew and maintenance training]()
Extending mission readiness: where XR adds real value in pilot, crew and maintenance training
Extended reality (XR) is becoming increasingly relevant in military aviation training, adding a flexible layer to an integrated ecosystem spanning the pilot, crew, and maintenance domains.
-
![US military tests AI-powered CUAS turret against drone swarms]()
US military tests AI-powered CUAS turret against drone swarms
As the US continues to invest heavily in counter-drone systems, demand for low-cost, mobile and autonomous technologies is on the rise, with Edda designed to align with these emerging requirements.
-
![August crewed air review: KC-390 momentum builds as demand in the tanker market grows]()
August crewed air review: KC-390 momentum builds as demand in the tanker market grows
The KC-390 is building a growing international operator base, but competition in the transport and tanker market is increasingly likely to depend on interoperability, commonality and the strength of supporting ecosystems. Meanwhile, Boeing’s KC-46 and Airbus’s A330 also gained ground in August.
-
![Iran war exposes the limits of US military mass]()
Iran war exposes the limits of US military mass
As the Straits of Hormuz continue to witness military action of various types, what does this mean for combat air and air defence planners in the region and beyond?
-
![New E-3 and T-38 awards expose US Air Force legacy fleet dependence]()
New E-3 and T-38 awards expose US Air Force legacy fleet dependence
Contracts for E-3 aircrew training through August 2029 and supplies for the T-38 engine until December 2028 reflect issues with replacement and retirement plans across the USAF inventory.
