Germany to Deploy Loitering Munitions for the First Time Amid Rising Security Concerns

Germany is set to arm its military with loitering munitions for the first time, marking a major shift in its defense strategy amid growing geopolitical tensions. According to reports, the German Defense Ministry is close to finalizing contracts with two companies to acquire an initial batch of these explosive drones, which will be tested across the army, navy, and air force in the coming months.

While Germany has previously hesitated to adopt such weaponry due to ethical concerns and its traditionally restrained defense posture, recent developments—particularly lessons learned from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war—have driven a reassessment of its capabilities. Loitering munitions, often referred to as "suicide drones," can hover over a battlefield before precisely striking enemy targets. Their effectiveness has been widely demonstrated in Ukraine, where both sides have used them to disable armored vehicles, air defense systems, and high-value command centers.

German military officials have acknowledged the growing importance of drones in modern warfare. One defense source stated, “The use of drones and the defense against them is crucial for the survival of our troops. That’s a lesson we’ve learned from Ukraine.” Given this, Berlin is also emphasizing drone training for its soldiers, ensuring that all personnel are equipped with the necessary skills to operate or counter these systems.

While the initial contract is expected to focus on a limited number of drones for training purposes, Germany is reportedly preparing for larger acquisitions in the near future. A long-term procurement plan for a substantial stockpile of loitering munitions is expected to be signed by the end of the year, signaling a deeper commitment to enhancing its drone warfare capabilities.

This move aligns with Germany's broader military modernization efforts, which have accelerated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With NATO allies increasingly relying on drones for intelligence gathering and combat operations, Germany’s entry into the loitering munitions domain reflects a significant strategic pivot. As Berlin continues to recalibrate its defense policies, the integration of these advanced weapon systems could reshape its military doctrine for years to come.