Germany seeks replacement after cancellation of US missiles

Published on May 15, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

The United States' decision to halt the deployment of Tomahawk missiles in Germany leaves the country without its medium-range defense bridge. The 2024 plan, which aimed to deter Russia with projectiles of up to 2,500 kilometers, now forces Berlin to accelerate the development of its own weapons, a process that promises to be slow and costly.

A map of Europe centered on Germany shows a Tomahawk missile crossed out in red, with a broken arrow pointing to Berlin and an hourglass over a sketch of a domestic missile.

Development of European cruise missiles underway 🚀

Faced with the void, European industry is working on cruise missiles with a range of 2,500 kilometers, capable of reaching Russian territory. These systems, based on advanced propulsion and guidance technologies, require overcoming challenges of integration with naval and aerial platforms. The program, led by Germany and France, aims for operational capability by 2030, although timelines depend on funding and successful field tests.

Europe, the new owner of its own missile 🎯

Following the US withdrawal, Germany discovers that relying on foreign aid is like borrowing the neighbor's car for a long trip: sooner or later, you're left stranded. Now, with local development, German engineers will have to explain to politicians that missiles are not made with haste or bureaucracy. At least, the delay provides time to decide whether the launch button should have a more elegant design.