Hegseth: harnessing German industry for NATO defence

Washington (d.de) – Germany and the USA are looking to cooperate more closely on the development and production of defence equipment. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and his US counterpart Pete Hegseth signed a declaration of intent to this effect during a meeting at the Pentagon in Washington.

The aim is to make greater use of the innovative capabilities and production capacities of both countries’ defence industries. The cooperation is to facilitate the joint development and production of modern weapons systems, their components and complex munitions. Plans also include licensed production and closer cooperation on maintenance and servicing.

The aim of the agreement is to help make defence equipment available more quickly and in greater quantities. To this end, Germany and the USA also want to strengthen their supply chains and improve technology sharing. Joint research and development is to be stepped up as well.

Pistorius highlighted the capabilities of German industry: “Germany has a strong industrial base, highly skilled workers and cutting-edge technological expertise. This will enable us to create additional production capacity.”

Germany and the USA already cooperate on several defence projects. These include the F-35 stealth fighter and the planned production in Germany of guided missiles for the Patriot air defence system. The declaration that has now been signed provides the political framework for further joint projects.

Hegseth also praised Germany’s contribution to strengthening NATO. According to the two ministers, closer links between the two countries’ defence industries will help meet the increased demand for weapons, ammunition and military equipment more reliably. At the same time, advanced systems for the armed forces of Germany, the USA and their allies are to be made available more quickly and in greater numbers.