A new pact between Berlin and Washington on September 16 increases collaboration on the manufacturing of military equipment. The agreement coincides with a proposal from Germany’s defense ministry to spend nearly €3.4 billion on mobile Typhon launchers and Tomahawk cruise missiles. These Lockheed Martin systems provide the Bundeswehr with its first ground based long range strike capability. Berlin seeks full ownership and operation of the hardware after a previous arrangement for U.S. controlled missiles was canceled.

An internal government document cited by Politico indicates that the German ministry aims to secure a role for European industry within the supply chain. Final acquisition of the missile systems remains subject to parliamentary approval and the allocation of federal funds.