Chancellor Merz Signals Shift on Taurus Missile Deliveries to Ukraine

By
Share with your friends

With the election of Friedrich Merz as Germany’s new Chancellor, the longstanding debate over supplying Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missiles to Ukraine has gained renewed momentum. In his inaugural speech, Merz, known for his assertive stance on defence, pledged to bolster Germany’s military capabilities and deepen support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Up to 100 missiles could be delivered to Ukraine.

In his inaugural address to the Bundestag on May 14th, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz unveiled plans to transform the Bundeswehr into Europe’s most formidable conventional military force. He emphasized that Germany’s allies “expect this from us, and what’s more, they are actually demanding it,” signaling a significant shift in Germany’s defense posture .

Merz also reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, “There must be no doubt about where we stand: unconditionally on the side of the Ukrainians.” He emphasised the importance of Western unity, particularly with the United States, in countering Russian aggression.

Regarding the provision of Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine, Merz did not make a definitive announcement. However, according to the Financial Times, Friedrich Merz has said that Germany willing to send Taurus missiles to Ukraine.

He has previously expressed readiness to supply them, contingent upon coordination with European allies and the United States. Earlier the same week, Merz indicated that discussions on this matter would occur within the “Coalition of the Willing” and in consultation with Washington. 

German-Swedish collaboration

The Taurus KEPD 350, a product of German-Swedish collaboration between MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Saab Dynamics AB, is a long-range air-launched cruise missile designed for precision strikes against fortified targets. With a range exceeding 500 kilometres, it surpasses the capabilities of other Western systems like the Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG. Its advanced guidance systems, including inertial navigation, terrain-referenced navigation, and GPS, enable it to navigate complex environments and evade enemy defences.

For Ukraine, acquiring Taurus missiles would significantly bolster its ability to conduct precision strikes against high-value targets deep within occupied territories, enabling it to disrupt Russian logistics and command structures more effectively.

The missile’s MEPHISTO warhead is engineered to penetrate hardened structures, making it particularly effective against bunkers and command centres. Its low radar cross-section and terrain-following flight path enhance its survivability in contested airspace.

Shift to Strategic Ambiguity

Under former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Germany refrained from supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns over escalation and the potential involvement of German personnel in targeting decisions.

However, Chancellor Merz has indicated a willingness to reconsider this position, emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine’s defence capabilities. In a recent policy shift, Merz announced that Germany would cease publicly disclosing details about its military aid to Ukraine, adopting a stance of “strategic ambiguity” to prevent Russia from gaining insights into the specifics of German support.

Up to 100 Missiles to Ukraine

According to reports, Germany possesses an operational stockpile of approximately 150–250 Taurus missiles. Leaked communications suggest that up to 100 missiles could be delivered to Ukraine in two batches of 50, depending on inventory levels and political decisions. While production of the Taurus missile had been suspended due to a lack of orders, MBDA Deutschland has indicated readiness to resume manufacturing upon receipt of new contracts. The company has also invested in modernizing its production facilities to meet increased demand.

Saab’s Role in Modernizing Taurus

In March 2025, Saab secured a significant contract valued at approximately $159 million (1.7 billion SEK) from Taurus Systems GmbH to maintain and modernize the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missiles for the German Air Force over a ten-year period (2025–2035). This modernization effort includes substantial system upgrades to enhance the missile’s performance and extend its operational life.

Technical Modifications and Training Needed

Despite the potential for renewed deliveries, several challenges remain. Integration of the Taurus missile into Ukraine’s existing aircraft, such as the Su-24 and Su-27, would require technical modifications and training, potentially taking several months. Additionally, internal political dynamics within Germany’s coalition government could influence the decision-making process.

Nevertheless, Chancellor Merz’s commitment to strengthening Germany’s defence posture and supporting Ukraine suggests a possible shift in policy. As the situation evolves, the international community will closely monitor Germany’s actions regarding the Taurus missile and its broader implications for the conflict in Ukraine.

Moscow Threats

Russia has threatened that any Ukrainian strike using German-supplied Taurus missiles would make Germany a direct party to the war. The warning came again after incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz signalled he’s open to sending the long-range cruise missiles to Kyiv.

Unlike the UK and France, which have already provided comparable systems, Germany’s potential move has triggered a fierce domestic debate and drawn sharp condemnation from Moscow. The Taurus missile’s range and penetrating power have stoked fears of escalation.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz seems undeterred. Germany’s looming decision will shape not just the Ukraine war but also its wider strategic stance in European security. It marks Germany’s return to a leading role in European security—something not seen in eight decades.

Technical specifications of Taurus KEPD 350
  • Range: +500 km
  • Weight: 1400 kg
  • Length: 5 m
  • Warhead: 481 kg (Tandem warheads)
  • Velocity: M 0.6-0.95
  • Approach: Low Level Terrain Following Navigation Tre-Tec (IMU aided by Image-based Terrain Reference navigation and GPS)
  • Propulsion: Turbojet
Read More:

Must Read

×