The German Parliament’s budget committee has approved a trio of defense projects, including an additional procurement of Meteor air-to-air missiles for the country’s Eurofighter Typhoons.
A total of 521 million euros ($550 million) has been approved for the purchase of a third batch of Meteor following lots of 150 and 100 missiles, purchased in 2014 and 2018, respectively.
The MBDA missile is one of the most capable weapons in the world in its category, featuring a range of about 200 kilometers (124 miles).
The ramjet missile maintains its speed and high energy throughout its flight path, enhancing its chances of strike.
It features an active radar seeker for target lock on and network-centricity to receive real time updates for midcourse flight adjustments.
An amount of 34.9 million euros ($38.19 million) has already been allocated by Berlin in studies to develop an upgraded Meteor.
“The Meteor guided missile is the Eurofighter’s main weapon in air combat against medium-range targets,” the German Ministry of Defence said in a press release.
“Meteor increases the assertiveness and survivability of the Eurofighter weapon system.”
Typhoon Future Helmet Striker II
Also approved is the purchase of Striker II helmet-mounted displays for the Eurofighter and training for the “Digitalisation of Land-Based Operations” (D-LBO) program.
A total of 63 million euros ($66.42 million) has been approved for the development of the display in collaboration with the UK and Italy.
The Striker II is intended to improve pilot situational awareness, enhancing the aircraft’s assertiveness and survivability.
It will replace the Striker I, which has been operational for twenty years.
According to BAE Systems, the Striker II “gives pilots unparalleled situational awareness, next generation EBAPS™ (Electron Bombarded Active Pixel Sensor) night vision, optional 3D audio, and battle proven target tracking technology — all in an integrated, visor-projected digital HMD system.”
The defense firm secured a 40-million-pound ($50.62 million) development contract for the system from the UK last year.
The German investment will extend the UK development contract, paving the way for the participation of Germany and Italy in the project. Procurement is expected from 2027.
‘Digitalization of Land-Based Operations’
Finally, 64 million euros ($67.54 million) was approved for training in the D-LBO program, which seeks to equip the German land forces with modern information and communications equipment.
Apart from training, the amount also covers the construction and rollout of training facilities for the program.