Germany Seeks $5bn Patriot Missile Upgrade

The German government has submitted a request to buy up to 600 of the most modern Patriot missiles.

As per a U.S. Department of Defence statement on Thursday, the U.S. State Department has approved the potential sale of the PAC-3 air defence missiles and related logistics at a potential total cost of approximately $5 billion.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) statement noted the planned sale would "support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally."

Lockheed Martin's PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) adds a two-pulse solid rocket motor to the existing projectile, meaning it can fly further and higher. It also features larger fins for greater in-flight manoeuvrability.

The DSCA statement notes the new potential deal also includes ten fly-to-buy missiles as well as tools and test equipment; launcher modification kits; MSE conversion kits; and other related elements of logistics and program support.

Read more on the DSCA website