Controversy Surrounding Arrow 3 Missile Defense System in Holzdorf
The construction of the Arrow 3 missile defense system at the Holzdorf airbase in Brandenburg has sparked criticism from the Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) political alliance. The alliance’s state parliamentarian, Sven Hornauf, has voiced concerns about the "arms buildup" at the site, which straddles the border between Brandenburg and Saxony-Anhalt.
"I find it deeply regrettable that voices of reason are not being heard, and that this step towards armament is being taken despite all the concerns and warnings," Hornauf told the German Press Agency (DPA). He emphasized that requests for clarification from both the federal and state governments have been met with references to secrecy and national security.
The Holzdorf military airport is set to become the first of three locations for the Arrow 3 firing units being procured by Germany from Israel. The missiles will form part of an expanded air defense system, aiming to close existing gaps. Brandenburg’s Minister-President Dietmar Woidke (SPD) supports the development of the site and anticipates positive effects for the region.
Despite his party’s initial criticism, BSW leader Sahra Wagenknecht has not seen the planned deployment as an obstacle to the coalition. While Hornauf’s potential exclusion from the state parliamentary group was considered, he ultimately faced no consequences.
Hornauf acknowledges the need to address gaps in the Bundeswehr’s capabilities but argues that the Arrow 3 system "represents a classic case of armament or arms buildup without defensive character." He contends that the Bundeswehr is "taking a step towards space armament" with this move. The Arrow 3’s effective altitude of around 100 kilometers, he notes, does not align with known Russian missile types but does intersect with numerous satellites.
While the BSW alliance, which has governed Brandenburg with the SPD since December, is critical of the Arrow 3 system’s acquisition and deployment, it acknowledges that the decision ultimately rests with the federal government. Both the SPD and BSW have committed in their coalition agreement to supporting the Bundeswehr and its facilities in Brandenburg, recognizing the need to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.
The Bundeswehr Administration has commenced construction work at the Holzdorf airbase to prepare for the Arrow 3 system. The aim, according to the Federal Office for Infrastructure, Environmental Protection, and Services, is to establish initial operational capability with the weapon system this year. The full deployment and operational readiness of the entire system are anticipated by 2030.
Key Perspectives:
- Sven Hornauf (BSW): Criticizes the Arrow 3 deployment as an unnecessary arms buildup and a step towards space armament.
- Dietmar Woidke (SPD): Supports the development of the Holzdorf site, highlighting its potential benefits for the region.
- Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW): Does not consider the planned deployment a major obstacle to the BSW-SPD coalition.
- BSW-SPD State Government: Recognizes the need for defense capabilities but remains critical of the Arrow 3 system.
- Bundeswehr Administration: Aiming to establish initial operational capability with the Arrow 3 system in 2023 and full operational readiness by 2030.
Implications and Context:
The controversy surrounding the Arrow 3 missile defense system underscores the complex interplay between security concerns, defense modernization, and political dynamics. It reflects the ongoing debate about the appropriate balance between strengthening defense capabilities and mitigating potential risks.
The decision to deploy the Arrow 3 system highlights the evolving nature of air defense, emphasizing the importance of countering threats from both traditional missile systems and potential space-based attacks.
