Germany agrees to sell advanced air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia
Berlin announced on Wednesday that it has agreed to sell air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia for installation in the Eurofighter fighter jet. |
According to the Fars News Agency International Group, the German government spokesman said on Wednesday that Berlin has agreed to deliver 150 Iris T air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia.
According to the news agency “Reuters” These missiles are produced by Germany’s “Diehl” arms company and are fired by “Eurofighter” fighters. The Eurofighter fighter project is a joint effort of England, Germany, Italy and Spain.
An informed source said: “These new missiles have not yet been delivered and are to be completed.” In a major change in Berlin’s foreign policy, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Olaf Schultz and Analena Barbock Germany said that Berlin will no longer prevent the sale of more European fighter jets to Riyadh. The German foreign minister said during a trip to occupied Palestine that Berlin is ready to sell these fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. .
Germany has blocked arms sales to Riyadh since the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist opposed to the Saudi regime, in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. This included the non-sale of 48 Eurofighter jets, which was signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in London. , but the Saudi pilots are of average quality.
News sources had previously announced Saudi Arabia’s desire to buy the French-made Rafale fighter. Saudi Arabia is also eyeing the French-made Rafale fighter.
Richard Abulafia, one of the aviation analysts, said: “The Saudis bought the F-15 fighter from the United States.” United will provide and of course they also want F-35. But they are eager to meet their needs from a dual source.”
publisher | Fars News |