Bundeswehr is investing billions in air defense – Taurus in focus!
Friedrich Merz and Markus Söder are planning massive investments in the Bundeswehr, especially for air defense and Taurus cruise missiles.
Bundeswehr is investing billions in air defense – Taurus in focus!
The Bundeswehr is facing comprehensive modernization measures, particularly affecting air defense. This is made clear by the announcements of leading politicians, including Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Markus Söder (CSU). Merz intends to continue Olaf Scholz's military strengthening course, while Söder promises "no limit" on defense spending. According to a document from Inspector General Carsten Breuer, strengthening air defense is a top priority.
The plans focus on expanding integrated missile defense and air defense for short and medium ranges, particularly to defend against drones. These measures are part of the Bundeswehr's strategic orientation, which aims to become “war-ready” by 2029. This was emphasized by Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD). In addition, the Bundeswehr plans to further expand its capabilities in the area of precision strikes using Taurus cruise missiles, which have a range of over 500 kilometers.
Modernization of the TAURUS cruise missile
In this context, a contract was signed between the Bundeswehr and TAURUS Systems GmbH, which focuses on the maintenance and modernization of the TAURUS cruise missiles. These measures are designed to ensure the operational readiness of the TAURUS until at least 2045. Major Overhaul 2 will include a comprehensive modernization of the cruise missiles, with maintenance and technological upgrades taking place at MBDA's Schrobenhausen site.
The TAURUS remains a key element of the Air Force and NATO as it enables the defeat of enemy air defense systems from a safe distance. It also contributes to deterrence and national and alliance defense. Loud MBDA Germany The modernization is also intended to strengthen the Bundeswehr's capabilities in the area of stand-off weapons.
Formation of the Bundeswehr brigade in Lithuania
Another aspect of strengthening the Bundeswehr is the establishment of a brigade in Lithuania. Inspector General Carsten Breuer moved into the country on May 22nd to support the establishment of this brigade. This force, consisting of around 5,000 German soldiers and known as Panzerbrigade 45, is intended to secure NATO's eastern flank.
The need for such a brigade became clear in the context of the Russian threat, particularly in the context of the Ukraine war. Breuer emphasized support for Lithuania and its people. This brigade is seen as a signal to Moscow and is expected to be fully operational by 2027. This is the first permanent stationing of a troop unit abroad for the Bundeswehr.
The Ministry of Defense has not yet commented on the current reports on investments and planned operations. However, the signs are clear: the modernization and strengthening of the Bundeswehr is being pushed forward at both a political and operational level in order to meet the challenges of the present and future.