Germany and the US have decided to expand cooperation in the defense industry. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth signed a letter of intent in Washington, envisioning closer collaboration between the defense industries of the two countries.

The German Ministry of Defense stated that current security conditions necessitate a strong and more integrated defense industry infrastructure on both sides of the Atlantic. The agreement aims to increase cooperation in development, production, licensed manufacturing, and maintenance for future defense projects. Additionally, plans include strengthening supply chains, reviewing technology transfer rules, and increasing cooperation in research and development efforts.

The defense industries of both countries aim to complement each other more in the production of advanced weapon systems, components, and complex ammunition. Increasing production capacity, shortening delivery times, and securing supply are also among the priorities due to the growing demand for defense products.

Minister Pistorius stated before his meeting with Hegseth that cooperation is not limited to projects such as the F-35 fighter jet and the production of guided missiles for the Patriot air defense system in Germany. Pistorius noted that Germany possesses a strong industrial infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and advanced technological capabilities, stating that new production capacities could be established with these resources.