Europe
Germany approves net-launcher counter-drone systems and new Patriot units to replace those sent to Ukraine
The Bundestag budget committee approved counter-drone net launchers, replacement Patriot fire units and repair containers, and new NH90 radios for the Bundeswehr on 14 October.
Germany’s armed forces are to buy more counter-drone systems and replace Patriot air defence equipment that was handed over to Ukraine, after the Bundestag’s budget committee approved a procurement package on 14 October 2026. The German Ministry of Defence announced the approvals the same day.
The ministry’s note does not give quantities, prices or manufacturers for any of the items, so the scale of the package is not public from this source.
Net-launcher drones to protect bases
The first item is a batch of net-launcher drones, which are small uncrewed aircraft designed to bring down other small drones. The ministry says they are meant mainly to protect military sites from surveillance and sabotage. The order covers delivery, initial spare parts, training and related services. The Bundeswehr already received drones of this type in 2025 for testing and training.
Patriot fire units and repair containers
The second item replaces Patriot fire units that Germany delivered to Ukraine in August 2025. The package includes command posts, radars, launchers, power supply systems, service and spare parts. The ministry says the cost is financed from the 2026 budget.
The committee also approved new repair containers for the Patriot system, replacing repair cabins that were bought from the late 1980s together with the original system, along with an option for further identical containers.
New radios for the NH90
The fourth approval covers new flight radios for the NH90 transport helicopter. According to the ministry, they are intended to maintain readiness and interoperability and allow encrypted tactical communication between aircraft and ground stations.
Context
The decision comes as European air defence is being networked more closely. Earlier this week Airbus linked German and Swedish systems in Crete, as covered in Airbus links German IRIS-T SLM and Swedish Patriot to one air defence network in Crete. Interceptor drones are also moving into formal programmes elsewhere, as in Merops: how the interceptor drone born in Ukraine became a US Army program of record in 142 days.