USA-Reise: Hegseth: Deutsche Industrie für Nato-Verteidigung nutzen

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised Germany's pioneering role in strengthening NATO's defense capabilities in Europe during a meeting with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius at the Pentagon. Both ministers signed an arms agreement, aiming to increase the use of German-produced weapons, ammunition, and equipment in the NATO alliance.

The memorandum of understanding expands opportunities for joint development, production, and licensing of such items. Pistorius emphasized the importance of maintenance and repair capabilities, stating that allied countries should follow suit. Hegseth added that the goal is to provide robust systems for American, German, and allied forces in large quantities and speedily to maximize impact.

He reiterated that defense spending is just the first step, with Germany leading by example in fulfilling NATO's 2% expenditure commitment. Hegseth noted that Germany has significantly increased defense spending and expanded its role in military aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the US and its allies are engaged in a war against Iran, with Iranian leaders remaining firmly in control and ready for counterattacks.

Iran's actions have put global trade, including oil and goods, under pressure. German industry sees these developments as opportunities, particularly in the production of US-produced anti-tank missiles, which have become scarce due to the war. Pistorius expressed gratitude for the German industry's offer to produce such systems in Germany when US capacities are insufficient due to high demand.

Both sides agreed that collaboration should not be one-sided, and Germany, with its significant US military presence, is exploring opportunities to produce advanced systems such as anti-tank missiles and air defense systems, like the Patriot missile.