Video: Germany conducts first launch of Meteor missile from a Eurofighter. Photo: Bundeswehr
For the first time, Germany has conducted a test launch of the long-range air-to-air missile MBDA Meteor from a Eurofighter, marking a significant advancement in the capabilities of its Air Force.
The announcement was made by the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) on their official website.
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The test took place at a military training range in Scotland, due to the lack of sufficiently large testing sites in Germany. Currently, German Eurofighters are equipped with short-range IRIS-T missiles and medium-range AMRAAM missiles. The addition of the Meteor promises to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of these aircraft, enabling them to neutralize threats at much greater distances.
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“This means we can now better protect ourselves because targets can be attacked from a long distance and cannot get as close to us. Therefore, the Meteor is also a major asset in terms of deterrence,” stated the German Air Force.
Video: Germany conducts first launch of Meteor missile from a Eurofighter. Photo: Bundeswehr
Complex Integration Process
The full integration of the Meteor into Eurofighters has been a long and complex process. Although flight tests were completed in August 2021, with the missile recognized as operationally ready, the first actual launch occurred more than three years later. The flight tests themselves began in June 2020 and lasted over a year.
Similar Scenario in Italy
A similar situation was observed with the Italian Air Force. Despite the Meteor missile being officially adopted in 2020, its integration only began in October 2023. The Italian testing program is divided into three phases: the first phase by the end of 2023, the second by the end of 2024, and the third by the end of 2026.
Video: Germany conducts first launch of Meteor missile from a Eurofighter. Photo: Bundeswehr
Meteor: A Milestone in Air Defense
Despite logistical and technical challenges, the Meteor is widely recognized as one of the best long-range air-to-air missiles currently available. Its extended range and high precision represent a strategic advancement for the air forces that integrate it.
Source and images: Bundeswehr. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
