The German Navy has successfully test-fired the Israeli Naval LORA long-range ballistic missile system in the North Atlantic, in a previously secret exercise between Ireland and Iceland. The trial used two German frigates and was carried out under the navy’s experimentation framework, with Marine Inspector Jan Christian Kaack describing it as a milestone for the service.
The test forms part of Germany’s effort to assess a weapon with a range beyond 500 kilometres and to broaden its maritime strike options. Naval LORA, built by Israel Aerospace Industries, is designed for precision attacks from mobile or naval platforms. Public reporting confirms the firing was successful, but not any procurement decision, ship integration plan or timeline for acquisition.
The exercise also points to a possible future shift in German naval deterrence planning, with a sea-based land-attack capability alongside the Taurus cruise missile if the system is later bought. Reporting indicates the trial took place in a restricted area after warnings to shipping and aviation traffic, reflecting the scale of the operation and the need to keep the test out of public view until after completion.