Germany Tests Israeli LORA Missile, Eyes 500km Range Weapon

Germany's Navy has reportedly completed a secret trial of Israel's LORA ballistic missile in the North Atlantic, according to a report in the German newspaper Bild. The German military is looking to acquire these missiles, which boast a range exceeding 500 kilometers, a capability described by the German Navy commander as unprecedented.

The trial is part of Germany's broader rearmament efforts following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, aimed at deterring potential Russian aggression. Bild highlighted concerns among allies about possible actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting Germany's recent accusation that Russia was behind a drone incident at Leipzig airport. The potential acquisition of the LORA system could be part of a deal worth hundreds of millions of dollars, following Germany's previous purchase of Israel's Arrow 3 missile defense system.

During the test, two LORA missiles were launched from the German frigate Sachsen-Anhalt, with both successfully hitting their designated targets at sea. This trial marks a significant step for the German Navy, as it currently possesses no ballistic missiles. Germany is reportedly considering the naval version of the LORA, which has proven operational experience in conflicts like the one between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Germany is also exploring other long-range strike capabilities, including potentially purchasing Tomahawk cruise missiles from the U.S. and developing European long-range missile systems. This move addresses a perceived gap in Germany's military capabilities regarding precision long-range weaponry, a deficiency they aim to rectify amidst the perceived Russian threat. Germany has maintained relatively stable relations with Israel, even amid international criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza following the October 7th attacks.