Bundeswehr Enhances F-35 Jets with Advanced Norwegian Cruise Missiles

The German armed forces are set to bolster their capabilities as the government moves forward with the acquisition of state-of-the-art cruise missiles from Norway. This strategic decision comes as part of a broader effort by the Merz administration to modernize the Bundeswehr and enhance its operational effectiveness.

According to reports from the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, Germany has expressed intentions to procure Joint Strike Missiles (JSM), which are designed for integration with the F-35 fighter jets currently being acquired from the United States. A formal contract for this procurement is anticipated to be finalized by the end of June 2025, as confirmed by the Norwegian authorities.

The total value of the contract is estimated at approximately 6.5 billion Norwegian kroner, which equates to around 560 million euros. This financial commitment reflects the ongoing collaboration between NATO allies, particularly between Germany and Norway, as they work together to enhance their military capabilities.

The JSMs are specifically engineered for the F-35 aircraft, allowing them to engage targets with high precision over considerable distances, whether on land or at sea. The integration of these advanced munitions is expected to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of the F-35 fleet.

Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik highlighted the importance of this agreement, noting that it will further solidify the existing partnership between Norway and Germany. As both nations prepare to operate F-35 jets equipped with these cruise missiles, the collaboration is expected to yield mutual benefits in terms of defense readiness and interoperability.

In addition to Germany and Norway, several other countries, including the United States, Australia, and Japan, have also opted to procure the Joint Strike Missiles. This widespread interest underscores the growing demand for advanced military technologies capable of addressing modern threats.

As the Bundeswehr continues to evolve under Chancellor Friedrich Merz's leadership, the focus remains on enhancing military support to allies, including potential assistance to Ukraine. Recently, there have been discussions regarding the possibility of providing German Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, showcasing Germany's commitment to supporting its partners in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges.

This latest acquisition marks a significant step in Germany's defense modernization efforts, reinforcing its position as a key player within NATO and the broader international security landscape.