Long-range US missiles are set to be deployed periodically in Germany starting from 2026, marking the first such deployment since the Cold War era. This decision was announced during NATO’s 75th anniversary summit, underscoring a significant shift in defense strategy amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
In a joint statement, the US and Germany highlighted that the deployment would include Tomahawk cruise missiles, SM-6 missiles, and hypersonic missiles, all possessing significantly longer ranges than existing missile systems. This move follows the collapse of the 1988 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which previously banned such ground-launched missiles capable of traveling certain distances.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov swiftly condemned the decision, labeling it a provocation and warning of a military response to what he described as an escalation by NATO and the US. He accused Western powers of attempting to intimidate Russia with the deployment.
Initially characterized as episodic, the deployment of these missiles is expected to transition to a permanent status, reflecting the US commitment to NATO’s integrated deterrence strategy in Europe. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, speaking from the NATO summit in Washington, emphasized that the deployment would serve as a catalyst for European countries, including Germany, to enhance their own missile capabilities.
In response to the growing capability gap in Europe, Pistorius joined counterparts from France, Italy, and Poland in signing a letter of intent to develop the European Long-Range Strike Approach (Elsa). This initiative aims to bolster Europe’s defense capabilities with long-range missiles, essential for deterrence and defense across the continent.
The decision to host US missiles on German soil has sparked criticism within Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government, particularly from the Greens party. Sara Nanni, the Greens’ security spokesperson, expressed dismay over the chancellor’s silence on the matter, warning that it could exacerbate fears and misinformation among the public.
The deployment of long-range US missiles in Germany signifies a pivotal development in European defense policy, underlining efforts to strengthen NATO’s collective defense posture amid evolving security challenges and geopolitical dynamics.