Germany; MoD signs Israeli Arrow-3 ABM order with Israel

On September 28, 2023, Germany signed a historic agreement with Israel to purchase the Arrow 3 anti-missile defense system.

A sales agreement between Israel and Germany concerning the Arrow 3 anti-missile system took place on September 28, 2023, in Berlin. The agreement was signed by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This is an unprecedented agreement between the two nations.

The Arrow 3 system is more than just a simple missile. It is a hypersonic exoatmospheric anti-ballistic missile, a technology developed jointly by Israel and the United States. Designed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Boeing, the system is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), carrying nuclear, chemical, biological, or conventional warheads. The missile can reach hypersonic speeds and has a reported flight range of up to 2,400 km. The system was launched in 2008 with the aim of achieving 99% effectiveness.

But that’s not all. The Arrow 3 system is also capable of serving as an anti-satellite weapon. This positions Israel among the few nations capable of shooting down satellites. The system also has a unique “divert motor” capability, which allows the kill vehicle to radically change direction. This flexibility allows it to pivot to see approaching satellites, adding another layer of complexity and versatility to this system.