Germany successfully tested an Israeli ballistic missile late Tuesday into Wednesday over the North Atlantic, according to military officials. This test comes as Western powers rush to acquire long-range weapons to counter perceived threats from Russia, as reported by Reuters.
The test involved a LORA missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and occurred just hours after Germany publicly accused Russia of attempting a drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport last month and announced corresponding countermeasures.
Currently, Germany lacks ballistic missiles, which travel at much higher speeds than the cruise missiles in its arsenal.
“Surpasses Anything We’ve Seen So Far”
The Israeli-made system has a range of up to 500 km, according to the German Ministry of Defense.
Berlin is engaged in several multinational collaborations aimed at developing long-range missiles and is exploring options for the acquisition of such weapons.
Jan Christian Kaack, head of the Navy, stated that the test was successful. “Our units can successfully deploy the system, and its potential range surpasses anything we’ve seen so far,” he said in a statement.
He added, “In terms of protecting Germany and our allies, this test marks a new chapter in deterrence and maritime defense preparedness.”
Germany Also Enhancing Taurus Missile
Germany is also working on an improved version of the Taurus cruise missile, which is currently its only weapon with a range of several hundred kilometers, with production expected to begin in 2029.
The enhanced Taurus NEO missile will feature an extended range, better protection against interference, and advancements in navigation technology and seeker heads, according to a budget document.
The German armed forces currently possess about 600 Taurus missiles with an official range exceeding 500 km, which can be launched from fighter jets such as the Tornado, F-15, or F-18.
The Taurus missile, produced by European defense contractor MBDA, is designed to destroy targets located behind enemy lines, such as command bunkers, ammunition and fuel depots, airfields, and bridges.
