The United Kingdom and Germany are strengthening their defense and security ties by jointly developing artillery systems. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the plans during talks in Berlin, emphasizing the importance of closer cooperation in the face of shared challenges.
The two countries will collaborate on developing remote-controlled Howitzer 155mm wheeled artillery systems, which will be integrated into Boxer armored fighting vehicles. This program is expected to create jobs in both the UK and Germany while providing their troops with cutting-edge capabilities for future ground warfare.
Beyond military cooperation, the leaders also discussed collaboration on energy, renewables, and efforts to tackle organized immigration crime. Sunak sought to attract German businesses to drive further economic cooperation, with German firms expected to announce new investments worth approximately £8 billion in the UK.
Sunak and Scholz’s meeting follows Sunak’s visit to Warsaw, where he pledged to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of UK-German cooperation in defending against Russian aggression and driving economic growth and technological advancement.
Germany has recently increased its defense spending and provided significant military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems to bolster air defense. Sunak praised Scholz for this shift in policy and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine alongside Germany.
The cooperation between the UK and Germany is a testament to their shared values and commitment to European security. It represents a new chapter in the partnership between two of Europe’s leading powers, who are working together to address common threats and promote peace and prosperity.
