Despite Germany being not just one of the founders of the European project ELSA (European Long-Strike Approach) aimed at creating long-range missiles, but also the initiator, there is little reason for optimism. Especially considering that the desired strike range, as demonstrated by the experience of repelling Russian aggression, should be 2000 km, and the likelihood of a European cruise missile with such specifications remains questionable.
A rather critical article on this topic was published by the German outlet Hartpunkt. It noted, citing its own sources, that the German Ministry of Defense is already exploring and discussing the possibility of purchasing American Tomahawk cruise missiles. Additionally, there is the version for ground launch, namely the Typhon system.
The publication systematically outlined all possible alternatives. For instance, it pointed out that the new cruise missile Land Cruise Missile from MDBA will be developed based on the MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval, known in English as NCM - Naval Cruise Missile). However, its stated range is only 1000 km. Furthermore, as the publication mentions, its development has not yet been contracted, leading to well-founded skepticism regarding the introduction of this missile into service within this decade.
It was also noted that despite the acquisition of F-35s equipped with AGM-158B JASSM-ER cruise missiles, the situation does not significantly change. Firstly, their range is also around 1000 km. Secondly, it will take years before the German fifth-generation fighters become operational.
Regarding Germany's only long-range weapon, the Taurus cruise missiles, the situation is not much better. Despite discussions about creating a new Taurus Neo, everything has ended with support for existing missiles until 2045. However, from Defense Express's perspective, this would not have much impact, as even under the development plan, the new version of this cruise missile is expected to be delivered only starting in 2029.
Much later, in the 2030s, the emergence of a new anti-ship missile 3SM Tyrfing is anticipated, which should possess supersonic speed and be capable of hitting land targets. Germany is directly involved in its development, working alongside Norway's Kongsberg, Diehl Defense, and MBDA Deutschland. The existing armament on ships - RBS-15, is being replaced by the Naval Strike Missile with a range of 180 km.
It should be noted that if we look at the actual state of affairs and existing plans, the option of purchasing ready-made missiles, like the Tomahawk, appears to be almost the only viable one. Especially since the sale of these missiles has recently gained momentum. Previously, they were only possessed by the United Kingdom, but in December, the "club" expanded to include Australia, which became the third country to launch Tomahawk. Soon, Japan is expected to receive these cruise missiles, having contracted for 400 units in January 2024 for $1.7 billion (at $4.25 million per Tomahawk).
However, there is one important factor regarding the plan to "buy Tomahawk." What if the U.S. does not provide its cruise missiles to Germany? Specifically, the Netherlands also wanted to purchase them, but ultimately joined the European long-range ELSA.