The threat of ballistic missiles in Europe is not new. Eighty years ago, Nazi Germany attacked London and other cities with its long-range V1 and V2 rockets. Today, Russia fires missiles at Ukraine on a daily basis, endangering the stability of Europe, its people, and the cities of neighboring countries.
Ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become the primary weapons of modern warfare. Borders no longer provide protection, as destruction bypasses front lines and strikes directly at civilian areas. Long-range missile threats erase the distinction between the battlefield and the home front, turning cities into battlefields. Europe has been caught unprepared: most countries lack effective ballistic missile defense systems, and those with limited domestic capabilities can only address short- and medium-range threats, certainly not long-range ones.
The State of Israel as a model
Since the early 2000s, with the deployment of the Arrow 2 system, Israel has steadily advanced its ability to counter threats across steep trajectories-from short to long ranges, and from near-ground altitude to space. In 2011, the Iron Dome became operational, followed by David’s Sling in 2016 and Arrow 3 in 2017. Together, these four systems form Israel’s integrated defense network, designed to cover the full spectrum of aerial threats with overlapping layers and backup capabilities.
Continuous innovation and an ongoing arms race have pushed these systems far beyond their original design. Soon, a laser-based system will be added, initially integrated into the Iron Dome. As it evolves, this technology is expected to expand its reach, enabling interception of not only drones and short-range rockets but also more advanced, long-distance threats.
Israel is the first country in the world to develop both a doctrine and the capabilities to intercept and defend against rocket and missile threats. Over the past two decades, it has also been the only nation to face more than 30,000 rockets and missiles launched from multiple operational theaters-both near and far-by terrorist organizations and enemy states. Through this experience, Israel has become a global model for nations seeking to prepare and build effective defensive capabilities.
During my service as commander of the air defense array, I often met with military leaders from around the world. They were impressed by our concepts and capabilities, and astonished by the scale of investment. I always explained that no nation can afford to neglect the protection of its citizens and its territory. When such a threat emerges in their region, they too will face the same reality. Today, Europe stands at a crossroads-confronting a genuine threat and the urgent need to safeguard its citizens and national assets.
The engine of Europe – Germany
Europe, long challenged by issues of identity and unity, now faces common concerns and shared threats. Russian aggression may not be limited to the war in Ukraine but could spread to other parts of the continent. In response, countries across Europe are investing in missile defense systems: Eastern Europe (such as Poland), Northern Europe and the Scandinavian states (including Finland), and Central and Western Europe (Britain with its developing systems, Germany, and others).
For many years, Germany has been the driving force in Europe; its size, location, and economic strength have placed it in a natural leadership role across the continent. Following the outbreak of the Russia–Ukraine war, Germany quickly recognized the growing threat and resolved to acquire a long-range missile defense system.
Although Germany’s defense industry is highly advanced, it lacked proven systems capable of addressing such challenges, prompting a competition between existing solutions. A head-to-head contest soon emerged between Israel’s Arrow 3 and America’s THAAD. After extensive deliberation, Germany chose the Israeli system. The decision was made even before the Arrow 3 had even demonstrated its full capabilities in Israel’s recent conflicts with Iran, where it successfully intercepted numerous threats and gained valuable operational experience.
Incidentally, around the same time, THAAD was also deployed in Israel and achieved notable success. In December 2025, Germany received its first operational Arrow 3 system, marking a significant milestone in its defense preparedness.
Much more than a weapons system
Germany has entered a new era, joining the select group of nations capable of intercepting long-range missiles. Yet this capability does not fully protect all of Germany, its people, or its critical assets. The Arrow system will need to expand its coverage to safeguard larger areas and infrastructure. At the same time, Germany must continue developing its defense concept by integrating additional systems-such as the Patriot PAC-3-into a unified network that shares information and executes a common mission.
The Arrow system is far more than a weapon-it marks Germany’s entry into a new era, joining the ranks of nations capable of intercepting long-range missiles. This development will accelerate across Europe, and especially within Germany. The Arrow system represents not only advanced technology but also a fundamental shift in strategic thinking for countries that, for 80 years, have not lived under the shadow of a direct military threat. Most significantly, such threats were absent from Europe’s security landscape until the war between Russia and Ukraine reshaped the region’s reality.
Israel holds a distinct advantage over other nations thanks to its unique operational environment and constant exposure to real-world threats-particularly in the past two years.
The rigorous testing and proven effectiveness of its defense systems, combined with the operational concepts developed in Israel, create a significant opportunity to strengthen ties with the West, overcome embargo barriers, and enhance global perceptions of Israel. Beyond strategic benefits, this also represents an economic opportunity and a powerful growth engine for Israel’s defense industry.
The deployment of the Arrow system in Germany will deepen and strengthen the relationship between Israel and Germany. This cooperation, second only to Israel’s alliance with the United States, represents a vital pillar of Israel’s national security. It is also a major strategic benefit arising directly from the weapons system agreement between the two nations.
On a personal note, the evening before the ceremony in Germany, I wrote to my friend-the commander of Germany’s air defense-whom I met twice last year and who has maintained close ties with the last four commanders. The integration of the Arrow system represents far more than a weapons platform; it embodies the commitment between our nations and, above all, the human connection between our generation and the new generation now stepping forward to confront today’s challenges.
Brigadier General (Ret.) Zvika Haimovich, is the former commander of Israel’s Air Defense Forces