Germany plans to become the first European power to develop a national space-based missile detection system, as Europe seeks to reduce reliance on US early-warning capabilities.
Major General Michael Traut, head of Germany’s space command, said Berlin is planning “the core of a satellite-based missile detection system”, designed as a national project but open to European collaboration. He argued that stronger sovereign capabilities would make Europe a more credible partner for the United States.
Key developments
• Europe currently depends on US-provided space-based missile warning via NATO
• Germany plans to invest €35bn in military space technology by 2030
• Missile detection identified as an urgent operational priority
• Aim to detect and intercept missiles earlier and more autonomously
• Would mark Europe’s first operational launch-detection capability
Josef Aschbacher, Director-General of the European Space Agency, said discussions are under way on integrating German capabilities into European infrastructure, while stressing the agency would not develop offensive weapons.
Traut declined to give timelines but said Germany had “no time to delay”, citing rising missile threats and Europe’s growing security vulnerability.
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