The German Air Force's air force will retrofit its three Airbus A350-900s with a missile defense system. This is reported by the news magazine "Spiegel". The German government had originally decided not to implement this security measure for reasons of time and cost. With the retrofitting that has now been decided, the aircraft, which are often used by high-ranking politicians, will receive important protection against potential threats from incoming missiles.
The A350-900s are the most modern aircraft in the Air Force and are usually used for trips by the Federal Chancellor, Federal President and Foreign Minister. These missions often take place in international crisis areas or during diplomatic visits, where the risk of attacks cannot be ignored. The decision to equip the aircraft with a defense system follows the realization that the protection of high-ranking politicians must be the top priority.
The defense system will be integrated into the Airbus aircraft in the form of a defense laser developed by the companies Elbit and Diehl Defense. This system has already proven itself in the German army, particularly on the Airbus A400M. The retrofitting will take place step by step, with each aircraft being converted individually so as not to impair operational capability.
According to experts, protection against incoming missiles is an essential measure for the safety of the air force. The Air Force has repeatedly emphasized in the past that modern military aircraft should have such systems in order to meet safety requirements. The decision to upgrade could also be motivated by a general increase in security concerns at the international level.
The integration of a missile defense system into civil and military aircraft is a trend-setting step that has already been taken in other countries. Especially since the increase in conflicts and the threat posed by drones and missiles, the protection of government flights has become a key issue in many nations. Germany is thus following an international trend in which the protection of high-ranking personalities and strategically important facilities is being increasingly strengthened.
This measure is being discussed in both the political and military community, with some voices expressing concerns about the cost and time needed to upgrade. Nevertheless, the measure is generally seen as a necessary step to improve security.
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