Germany plans to significantly expand its air-defense capabilities by purchasing over 600 SkyRanger 30 systems from the defense manufacturer Rheinmetall, according to a report by Handelsblatt on Friday.

Citing defense ministry and industry sources, the paper said the agreement - valued at more than €9 billion ($10 billion) - is expected to be finalized before the end of 2025. The deal marks one of Berlin's largest-ever military procurements in decades.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said last week that the government would begin acquiring hundreds of SkyRanger units in the coming months to strengthen national and European defense readiness.

The SkyRanger 30 is a mobile, short-range air-defense system designed to counter drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. It can be mounted on armored vehicles, making it suitable for rapid deployment across conflict zones.

Officials said the purchase forms part of Germany's €100 billion“Zeitenwende” defense fund, created after Russia's invasion of Ukraine to modernize its military and reinforce NATO's eastern flank.

The acquisition reflects growing security concerns across Europe, particularly as Russia's influence and military presence expand in the region. NATO members have increased defense spending to improve coordination and strengthen deterrence.

Rheinmetall, one of Europe's leading defense contractors, is expected to ramp up production to meet rising European demand for advanced air-defense technology.

The SkyRanger procurement underscores Germany's renewed focus on defense modernization and collective European security amid escalating regional tensions.

Deployment of the systems is expected to begin in 2026, bolstering Germany's role as a key contributor to NATO's evolving defense architecture.

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