German Armed Forces to Acquire 20 Advanced Eurofighter Jets
The German Bundestag's Budget Committee has authorized a significant procurement initiative for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), approving the purchase of 20 new Eurofighter combat aircraft. This major investment, valued at approximately 3.75 billion euros, is intended to enhance the nation's aerial defense capabilities and maintain technological relevance within the rapidly evolving security environment.
The decision follows the standard requirement that all Bundeswehr acquisitions exceeding 25 million euros must receive parliamentary approval, as stipulated in the German Federal Budget regulations. The newly approved procurement is part of a broader set of 14 defense projects endorsed by the committee, totaling over 7 billion euros. These projects will be financed from the special defense fund established to modernize and strengthen Germany's military resources.
In addition to the combat jets, the package includes a variety of critical military assets, such as heavily armored medical vehicles, airborne operational and combat vehicles, advanced communication systems, specialized boats for naval forces, and anti-armor munitions for both aircraft and naval artillery. These acquisitions aim to address diverse operational needs and ensure the Bundeswehr remains equipped to meet future challenges.
The integration of 20 new Eurofighter jets will supplement the existing fleet of 138 aircraft currently in service. Delivery of these new jets is scheduled for the period between 2031 and 2034. The new aircraft will serve as an interim measure, maintaining operational readiness and air defense capabilities until the introduction of the next-generation Future Combat Air System (FCAS), which is under joint development by Germany, France, and Spain and is expected to be operational by 2040.
The FCAS program is envisioned as a comprehensive air combat system that goes beyond traditional manned fighter jets. It will operate in coordination with both unarmed and armed drones, representing a shift toward networked, multi-domain operations. However, development and integration of FCAS have encountered delays, making the acquisition of additional Eurofighters a strategic necessity to bridge the gap and ensure continued deterrence and defense capabilities for the German military.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized the importance of equipping the armed forces with cutting-edge and resilient technology to maintain effective national defense and credible deterrence. By investing in modern equipment across various military domains, the Bundestag aims to bolster Germany's defense posture and fulfill its commitments to collective security within the NATO alliance.
The procurement aligns with Germany's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces in response to evolving security demands in Europe and globally. The approved packages reflect a strategic focus on maintaining operational readiness, technological superiority, and the ability to respond to diverse security scenarios, both domestically and in international coalition contexts.
Overall, the acquisition of 20 new Eurofighter jets and additional military assets marks a significant milestone in Germany's defense modernization program, underscoring the country's commitment to strengthening its military capabilities and supporting long-term strategic objectives.