Armin Papperger, CEO of Europe's largest ammunition manufacturer Rheinmetall, said that EU leaders should consider installing short-range air defense systems similar to Israel's Iron Dome.


According to the Financial Times, this statement was made at a time when EU capitals are increasing military spending. Papperger said that short-range air defense is "something that needs to be built in Europe."


"I also think it's a good idea to have a European solution like Iron Dome and beyond," he said.


The Iron Dome has a range of up to 70 km and has been used by Israel since 2011 to intercept short-range missiles. Analysts say that large areas of continental Europe cannot be protected by such a system.


Another EU defense official said that Europe already has "all the capabilities to create a full level of air defense."


EU officials also note that Europe already has "all the capabilities to create a full level of air defense." However, creating a unified system of protection against air attacks is a difficult task due to the diversity of systems and interests of member states.


It is noted that the priority for Brussels is to develop more integrated European anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense systems. This is one of the priorities of the EU's defense capabilities, which are planned to be developed by 2035.


At the same time, Rheinmetall recently announced the sale of its Skyranger 30 short-range air defense system to the German Armed Forces for €600 million. Such steps are aimed at strengthening Europe's defense capabilities and supporting initiatives to create a unified air defense system in the European Union.