Deterrence and Defense: US Missiles for Germany: NATO Chief Reassures Moscow

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has sought to allay concerns regarding Germany's planned acquisition of US Tomahawk medium-range missiles, asserting that the move does not pose an increased escalation risk with Russia. Stoltenberg reiterated NATO's core identity as a defensive alliance, stating, "We are a defensive alliance. That means we will never attack anyone."

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We are a defensive alliance. That means we will never attack anyone.

Speaking to the German Press Agency, Stoltenberg explained that the deployment of Tomahawks in Germany is solely aimed at ensuring credible deterrence and enhancing the alliance's capacity for self-defense. He described the German plan, announced shortly after the NATO summit in Ankara, as "excellent news." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had secured a commitment from US President Donald Trump for the official approval of the sale of these cruise missiles and their Typhon launch platforms.

"This brings an additional layer of confidence in our common deterrence and defense capability," Stoltenberg remarked. He stressed the importance of being able to defend oneself for credible deterrence and highlighted that the Tomahawks would be an integral part of NATO's collective deterrence strategy. The Bundeswehr confirmed that the Typhon system can launch Tomahawk missiles with a range of about 2,500 kilometers, surpassing all current systems available in Europe.

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This brings an additional layer of confidence in our common deterrence and defense capability.

Currently, the German armed forces rely on the Taurus missile for long-range capabilities, but its range is limited to approximately 500 kilometers. The Tomahawk's extended range would allow for precise strikes against targets deep within enemy territory, such as command centers, military airfields, or launch sites for long-range missiles. Originally, the US had planned to station Tomahawks and other advanced missile systems in Germany, a commitment made by the Biden administration in 2024. However, the Trump administration is not bound by that previous announcement. The exact number of weapon systems Germany will purchase and the associated costs remain classified.

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The German plans for the purchase of Tomahawks were announced last week shortly after the NATO summit in Ankara.