UK and Germany Advance Deep Precision Strike Missile Programme
Progress in bolstering national security for the United Kingdom and Germany was affirmed on March 16, 2026, following discussions in Berlin regarding the joint development of Deep Precision Strike missiles. The initiative aims to create a novel generation of long-range, stealthy weaponry, with capabilities extending over 2,000 kilometers, slated to enter service in the 2030s.
Joint Development and Capabilities
UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard, met with Germany’s State Secretary for Armament and Innovation, Jens Plötner, at the Defence Bilateral Ministerial Group on Equipment and Capability Cooperation (MECC) to review the programme’s progress. The missiles will form a family of future stealth cruise and hypersonic weapons. Initial development focuses on ground-launched systems, with plans to expand capabilities to include air and naval platforms, enhancing deterrence and operational flexibility.
Building on Existing Agreements
The current advancements build upon the foundation laid by the Trinity House Agreement, signed by the UK and Germany in October 2024. This agreement signifies a commitment to strengthened defence cooperation between the two nations. The collaborative effort remains open to participation from other partner countries.
Investment in Defence
The UK government has committed to the largest sustained defence spending increase since the Cold War, allocating 2.6% of GDP to defence from 2027. This includes an additional £5 billion for defence in the current financial year and a total investment of £270 billion across the current parliamentary term.
“The UK-Germany relationship is incredibly strong and we’ve marked a step forward in our work to develop cutting-edge missile capabilities. We are not only arming our military personnel with the best weaponry to act as the strongest possible deterrent to our adversaries, but in doing so we are similarly building the industrial foundations that will keep both nations at the forefront of defence technology, making us secure at home and strong abroad.” – Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry
Future Outlook
The Deep Precision Strike missile programme represents a significant investment in future defence capabilities for both the UK and Germany. By fostering industrial collaboration and technological innovation, the initiative aims to ensure both nations remain at the forefront of defence technology and maintain a strong deterrent capability.