Germany to Deploy Israeli Arrow 3 Missile Defense System

Germany is set to officially unveil and deploy the Israeli-made Arrow 3 missile defense system later this week, marking the first time the cutting-edge platform will be stationed outside of Israel. This deployment represents a significant milestone in global defense cooperation and underscores the growing trust in Israel’s defense technologies.

The $3.6 billion defense agreement, signed in 2023, gained renewed momentum after the Arrow 3's stellar battlefield performance during multiple Iranian ballistic missile attacks against Israel in 2024 and 2025. During those strikes, the Arrow 3 successfully intercepted the vast majority of over 850 long-range missiles launched from Iran and its proxies, proving its capability under extreme wartime conditions.

In April 2024, Arrow 3 played a critical role in neutralizing 120 Iranian ballistic missiles. While the October 1 attack saw dozens of missiles hit Israeli airbases, the IDF had reportedly preemptively evacuated those sites, resulting in no casualties or aircraft losses. During a 12-day war in June 2025, Arrow 3 again showed its effectiveness by blunting another major barrage underscoring its ability to shield civilian and strategic assets.

Germany’s acquisition follows high-level cooperation between the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and German defense representatives. Elbit Systems and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems also played major roles, with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency co-developing the platform alongside Israel.

This landmark deployment comes after Germany lifted a temporary weapons sales freeze on Israel that had been imposed during the height of the Israel-Hamas War. In a powerful signal of restored confidence and mutual strategic interest, Berlin is not only deploying the Arrow system but has also continued to expand its defense procurement from Israel.

Defense officials in both countries hailed the system as a symbol of technological leadership and shared values in defending against rising ballistic missile threats many of which emanate from regimes hostile to Western democracies.

“The Arrow-3 missile defense system constitutes the forefront of global technology,” Israel’s Defense Ministry said. “It is designed to intercept exo-atmospheric ballistic missiles and continues to strengthen Israel’s ties with international partners.”

As Arrow 3 becomes operational on German soil, it signals both a diplomatic and technological win for Israel. It also reinforces the country’s vital role as a global leader in missile defense a testament to Israeli innovation under fire.

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