Germany is finalizing a €6 billion defense contract with Israel's Elbit Systems, marking one of the largest defense procurements in recent European history and underscoring the continent's accelerating rearmament efforts.
The deal centers on PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) artillery rocket systems, according to Globes. The contract would provide Germany's military with advanced long-range precision strike capabilities, filling gaps in the Bundeswehr's artillery forces that have become increasingly apparent since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Elbit Systems, Israel's largest defense contractor, has emerged as a major beneficiary of European military modernization programs. The company's systems have been battle-tested in conflicts across the Middle East, providing a proven track record that appeals to militaries seeking rapid capability enhancement.
The PULS system offers modularity that allows forces to launch various rocket types and precision-guided munitions from the same platform, with ranges extending up to 300 kilometers for certain configurations. This flexibility has made it attractive to militaries seeking cost-effective solutions that can adapt to different operational scenarios.
For Germany, the procurement represents a significant component of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's commitment to defense modernization following the 2022 announcement of a €100 billion special fund for the Bundeswehr. The contract signals continued German willingness to source from Israeli defense industries despite political sensitivities around the Gaza conflict.
