Germany Approves Eurofighter Jets Boosting European Defense Autonomy

Germany Approves €3.75 Billion Eurofighter Procurement: A Strategic Shift Toward European Defense Independence

Germany’s recent approval by its budget committee of 20 additional Eurofighter jets for €3.75 billion ($4.36 billion) marks a pivotal moment in European defense policy. This move signals Berlin’s commitment to fortifying continental military autonomy while reinforcing its transatlantic partnerships. Far from being a routine aircraft purchase, the decision embodies Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s vision to transform Germany into Europe’s leading conventional military power by 2031. The package also includes a €1.2 billion upgrade for Germany’s existing Eurofighter fleet, showcasing a comprehensive approach to air force modernization and a prioritization of European manufacturers and technological sovereignty.

This procurement emerges amid Germany’s rise as the world’s fourth-largest military spender, with defense expenditures reaching new heights and reflecting an 89 percent increase since 2015. The decision is both a response to changing security environments and a reflection of broader European efforts to achieve strategic autonomy while upholding NATO commitments. It stands as a cornerstone in Germany’s most significant military transformation since reunification, enabled by constitutional changes that permitted the suspension of the debt brake and the creation of a €500 billion defense modernization fund.

The Eurofighter deal, involving key European and transatlantic defense firms, is emblematic of the continent’s push for industrial sovereignty and defense resilience. As Germany pursues ambitious modernization goals under the Merz government, this procurement is set to shape the country’s military posture and industrial landscape for decades.

The German Defense Transformation: From Zeitenwende to Kriegstüchtigkeit

The roots of Germany’s current military modernization can be traced back to the “Zeitenwende” (watershed moment) announced by former Chancellor Olaf Scholz in February 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This policy pivot marked a dramatic departure from decades of restrained military spending and established Germany’s first-ever National Security Strategy. Under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the transformation has accelerated, with the government pledging to build the strongest conventional army in Europe and to increase defense-related spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has described this evolution as moving toward “Kriegstüchtigkeit” (war readiness), signifying a profound shift in Germany’s security identity. The country is transitioning from relying on the U.S. nuclear umbrella to assuming a leadership role within Europe and NATO. This cultural transformation is evident in public recruitment campaigns for armed and intelligence services and a growing emphasis on emerging military technologies.

Germany’s military capabilities had suffered from years of underinvestment, with land forces at roughly 50 percent readiness and significant maintenance backlogs. The Bundeswehr faces a personnel shortfall of about 20,000 troops, complicated by new NATO force commitments and ambitious plans to field ten brigades by 2030. The constitutional amendments that enabled the €500 billion “Sondervermögen” (special fund) for defense have allowed the government to bypass the traditional debt brake, providing the financial muscle needed for this unprecedented transformation.

The Eurofighter Program: European Collaboration and Industrial Sovereignty

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a hallmark of European defense collaboration, developed by a consortium including the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Since its inception in the 1980s, the program has fostered an ecosystem of over 400 companies, supporting nearly 100,000 jobs annually and contributing tens of billions of euros to European GDP.

Designed as a multirole, air-superiority fighter, the Typhoon incorporates advanced technologies such as the Captor-E AESA radar, PIRATE infrared tracking, and the Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS). These features ensure the aircraft remains competitive against modern threats and interoperable within NATO frameworks.

Germany has been a core partner in the Eurofighter project, operating 143 jets with additional orders in the pipeline. The current approval for 20 new Tranche 5 Eurofighters, scheduled for delivery between 2031 and 2034, will introduce the most advanced variants yet. This decision underscores Berlin’s commitment to European industrial sovereignty, even as it continues to operate American F-35s for NATO nuclear sharing missions.

“New Eurofighter Typhoon orders are essential to sustain and retain defence industry production assets in Europe. This will guarantee national and European technological independence, and industrial knowhow resilience, to the core nations over a long period.” — Giancarlo Mezzanatto, Eurofighter Typhoon CEO

Strategic Context and Military Modernization Plans

The Eurofighter procurement is part of a broader German defense modernization plan that includes more than €7 billion in approved orders for 2024, spanning naval assets and munitions. This comprehensive approach reflects Germany’s recognition that effective defense requires integration across all domains, air, land, sea, cyber, and space.

Current NATO planning, informed by war games and readiness assessments, has highlighted the need for Germany to rapidly enhance its military capabilities. As a central logistics and mobility hub for NATO, Germany’s air power is crucial for alliance operations, particularly in reinforcing eastern members.

The decision to prioritize European manufacturers also addresses concerns about supply chain security and technological independence. The Eurofighter program brings together BAE Systems, Airbus, Leonardo, Saab, and Northrop Grumman, ensuring that Germany’s defense investments support domestic and European industry.

Economic and Industrial Implications of German Defense Expansion

Germany’s surge in defense spending has elevated it to the top tier of global military spenders, with a reported $88.5 billion in 2024. This leap, an 89 percent increase since 2015, positions Germany as the largest defense spender in Central and Western Europe and reflects its commitment to meeting and exceeding NATO’s 2 percent of GDP target.

The economic impact of this expansion is significant. The Eurofighter program alone supports over 98,000 jobs annually and is projected to add up to €90 billion to GDP under optimistic export scenarios. Even the base scenario, limited to current German and Spanish orders, is expected to generate €58 billion in GDP and €14 billion in tax revenues over the next decade.

Beyond traditional defense contractors, Germany’s investment is fueling growth in defense-tech startups and dual-use technologies. Companies specializing in unmanned aerial vehicles, robotics, and cyber defense are finding new opportunities, contributing to both national security and economic competitiveness. The defense sector’s expansion also supports Germany’s role as a key supplier of military aid to Ukraine, further increasing demand for domestic production.

“Europe is entering a period of high and increasing military spending, which is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.” — Lorenzo Scarazzato, SIPRI

European Defense Cooperation and Autonomy

The Eurofighter procurement is a testament to Europe’s ongoing pursuit of strategic autonomy. Alongside EU initiatives like the SAFE program and Readiness 2030, Germany is at the forefront of efforts to strengthen continental defense capabilities while maintaining close ties with the United States.

Germany’s dual-track approach, investing in both European (Eurofighter) and American (F-35) aircraft, reflects practical considerations. While the Eurofighter strengthens industrial sovereignty, the F-35 is necessary for NATO nuclear missions due to its certification for the B61 bomb, a capability not present in European platforms.

European defense cooperation is marked by both collaboration and competition. The development of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) with France and Spain faces challenges, while the UK and Italy are pursuing the Tempest/GCAP program with Japan. Recent agreements to export Eurofighters to Turkey, despite political sensitivities, demonstrate the complex balancing act required in European defense.

Expert Analysis and Strategic Assessment

Experts have highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of Germany’s military transformation. While increased funding and procurement are necessary, they are not sufficient. Manpower shortfalls, procurement reform, and innovation remain critical hurdles. For example, Germany’s plan to double its military personnel by 2030 will require significant recruitment and training efforts.

Industry leaders stress that continued investment in programs like Eurofighter is vital for maintaining Europe’s technological edge and industrial base. At the same time, the integration of advanced systems and the development of new capabilities, such as unmanned and cyber systems, will define the Bundeswehr’s effectiveness in future conflicts.

The geopolitical environment remains fluid, with tensions between the U.S. and Europe on burden-sharing and technology access. Germany’s commitment to both European and transatlantic defense partnerships will shape its strategic choices in the years ahead.

“Money and matériel alone don’t guarantee security. Germany must address manpower, procurement reform, and defense innovation to succeed.” — Roderick Kefferpütz, Atlantic Council

Conclusion

Germany’s decision to procure 20 additional Eurofighter jets for €3.75 billion is a defining moment in its ongoing military transformation. The move underscores a strategic shift toward European defense independence, industrial sovereignty, and a more assertive security role within NATO and the EU. By investing in both the modernization of its air force and the broader defense ecosystem, Germany is laying the groundwork for a new era of continental security leadership.

The success of this transformation will hinge on Germany’s ability to address longstanding challenges in personnel, procurement, and innovation. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, Germany’s choices will have far-reaching implications for European security, industrial competitiveness, and the future of transatlantic cooperation.

FAQ

Q: Why did Germany choose to purchase more Eurofighters instead of expanding its F-35 fleet?
A: Germany is balancing European industrial sovereignty with operational requirements. The Eurofighter supports domestic and European industry, while the F-35 is necessary for NATO nuclear missions due to its certification for the B61 bomb.

Q: What are the economic benefits of the Eurofighter program for Germany?
A: The program supports tens of thousands of jobs, contributes billions to GDP, and strengthens the domestic defense industry, with additional benefits from exports and technological innovation.

Q: How does this procurement fit into Germany’s broader defense strategy?
A: The Eurofighter purchase is part of a comprehensive modernization plan aimed at building the strongest conventional army in Europe, enhancing readiness, and supporting NATO commitments.

Q: What challenges remain for Germany’s military transformation?
A: Key challenges include personnel recruitment, procurement reform, and the integration of new technologies such as unmanned systems and cyber capabilities.

Q: Will Germany’s defense spending continue to rise?
A: Current government policy targets increasing defense-related spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035, suggesting continued growth in the years ahead.

Sources: Reuters