Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces
Helsing is already producing 6,000 HX-2 drones for use in Ukraine. (Photo: Helsing)
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
-
What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?
With a pending NATO AWACS replacement on the horizon, the demand and market opportunities for airborne early warning aircraft remain strong as countries look to bolster their capabilities, with industry eyeing gaps in the market.
-
NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)
Developed in response to NATO’s needs, NHIndustries’ NH90 remains a cornerstone of European and Middle Eastern fleets – with upgrades planned to extend and improve the capabilities of the versatile and capable platform.
-
FY2027 budget request highlights shift in USAF’s future aerial refuelling priorities
The USAF’s Next-Generation Aerial Refuelling Programme is coming under scrutiny in the wake of the Pentagon’s FY2027 budget request, signalling a change in how the force could prioritise the modernisation of its tanker fleet.
-
Can laser-guided rockets and light aircraft help tackle the CUAS cost-curve?
While the move to integrate lower-cost missiles onto more combat aircraft is long overdue, there is also an opportunity for cheaper turboprop platforms to perform CUAS roles.