German Military Eyes New Missile Technology Amid Defense Gaps
The German military is actively exploring options to bolster its long-range strike capabilities, with current discussions involving Covenant, a U.S.-Israeli startup, about their Anthem cruise missile. This move aims to address weaknesses in Germany’s defense arsenal, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions.
As Germany seeks effective deterrents against Russian aggression, the nation’s defense ministry has acknowledged the potential role of Covenant’s Anthem missile in closing existing gaps. Germany’s reliance on the Taurus cruise missile is compromised due to delays in its new version, while expected U.S. Tomahawk missile deliveries remain uncertain following their extensive use in conflicts involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran. Furthermore, the European Long-Range Strike Aircraft (ELSA) project is still in its early stages.
While details of the negotiations with Covenant remain scarce, a German Defense Ministry spokesperson confirmed that discussions are underway, though the integration of Anthem into Germany’s military strategy is still to be detailed. The nation has already prioritized Lockheed Martin’s Typhon launchers, which can deploy a range of munitions, including Tomahawk missiles capable of traveling over 1,500 kilometers.
Anthem, which is also ground-launch capable, is reportedly ready for production, with weekly flight tests being conducted. Covenant emphasizes cost-effectiveness, targeting a mid-six-figure price for mass-produced units—a stark contrast to the $1 million cost of current-generation Taurus missiles. Founded in 2024, Covenant operated in stealth mode until recently and is now actively expanding its workforce.
The company’s strategy involves local production lines, ensuring allied governments can procure directly from a dependable industrial base. In Germany, the production facility is located in an industrial area of Leipzig, near Leipzig-Halle Airport. Although the company did not divulge specific details about propellant and warhead integration, it confirmed that the Leipzig plant would function as a metalworking facility, avoiding the regulatory requirements of a munitions factory.
Production in Germany is slated to commence in early 2027, with global customers receiving units as soon as 2026. Covenant’s main operations are based in Grand Prairie, Texas, with an additional plant in Israel. Local media have noted the political sensitivity surrounding the Leipzig facility, given the recent electoral success of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the region. The party, known for its pro-Russia stance, has expressed reservations about the new facility.
Despite political tensions, AfD leaders, such as Ulrich Siegmund, have not entirely opposed arms manufacturing. Siegmund, who recently led the party to victory in Saxony-Anhalt, stated, “We do not demonize the production of military equipment across the board.” His comments followed the controversy over a new facility by Israeli firm Elbit Systems in the area.
As Germany navigates these defense challenges, the outcome of its negotiations with Covenant could significantly shape its military capabilities and geopolitical stance in the coming years.
