Against Russia? Germany moves fast to buy thousands of AI-powered attack drones
Germany rushes purchase of strike drones (photo: Getty Images)
Germany's Defense Ministry plans to fast-track the purchase of several thousand kamikaze drones for the Bundeswehr from two German companies. The total cost of procurement is estimated at €536 million, Der Spiegel reports.
According to Der Spiegel, the ministry plans to spend more than half a billion euros on purchasing unmanned aerial vehicles capable of striking targets using artificial intelligence technologies. These are loitering munitions — kamikaze attack drones — to be supplied by German startups Helsing and Stark Defence.
Required documents have already been submitted for consideration by the Bundestag, as defense contracts worth more than €25 million are subject to mandatory approval by the parliament budget committee.
The main recipient of new drones will be the 45th Armored Brigade of the Bundeswehr, which is currently being formed in Lithuania on the NATO eastern flank. Use of such systems is expected to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the unit and serve as a deterrent factor against possible aggression from Russia.
What is known about new drones
Among models planned for purchase is the Virtus drone from Stark Defence, which performs vertical takeoff without a catapult, can carry a warhead weighing up to 5 kg, and, according to test results, is capable of penetrating more than 80 cm of armored steel.
Another model, HX-2 by Helsing, is smaller in size, launched from a catapult, and has already undergone testing in Ukraine, taking into account real combat experience. Both types of drones are equipped with AI-based guidance systems and can operate under electronic warfare conditions.
Publication notes that such speed of procurement is atypical for Germany Defense Ministry: first deliveries are planned to begin by the end of 2026. New contracts also provide for continuous technical upgrades of drones during their operation.
Germany strengthens its defense
Germany government is preparing a large-scale expansion of the powers of the Federal Intelligence Service. For the first time, it will be possible not only to collect information but also to actively act against state enemies, including cyberattacks and sabotage abroad.
Germany plans to approve a military procurement package worth €50 billion, which will become the culmination of a record year of country rearmament. Overall, the government intends to spend €650 billion on defense in 2025–2030.
In addition, Germany previously stated its readiness to shoot down Russian drones if there is a real threat to the country's security.
