Germany is set to significantly enhance the capabilities of its incoming F-35 fighter jet fleet with the acquisition of the Joint Strike Missile (JSM) from Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg. This strategic procurement, valued at approximately €600 million (around $650 million), positions Germany as the fifth nation to adopt this advanced weapon system.
The Joint Strike Missile is renowned for its precision strike capabilities, designed to engage both naval and land-based targets with exceptional accuracy. Key features of the JSM include an exact navigation system, a low-altitude flight profile designed to evade detection, and sophisticated automatic target recognition capabilities. These attributes make it a versatile asset for a range of complex missions.
Germany joins an exclusive group of nations already integrating the JSM into their arsenals, including Norway, Japan, Australia, and the United States. This commonality with key allies underscores the missile’s proven effectiveness and interoperability within advanced air forces.
The contract for the JSM acquisition is anticipated to be finalized by the end of the first half of 2025. This deal represents a crucial step in Germany’s ongoing military modernization efforts, particularly in equipping its new fifth-generation fighters with cutting-edge strike capabilities. The integration of the JSM will provide Germany’s F-35 fleet with enhanced stand-off attack options, significantly boosting its operational reach and precision in potential conflict scenarios