Berlin considers first foreign purchase of MQ-28 combat drone

Germany is considering the purchase of an Australian-developed combat drone, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said on Thursday, March 26, in a move that could make Berlin the first foreign buyer of the system.

Speaking at Australia’s National Press Club, Pistorius confirmed that acquiring the Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat is “under consideration,” highlighting growing German interest in unmanned platforms capable of operating alongside fighter aircraft.

The drone is designed to fly in coordination with jets such as the F-35 Lightning II, carrying sensors, electronic warfare systems or weapons, and performing higher-risk missions ahead of human pilots.

Pistorius indicated that any potential deal would follow a more flexible procurement model. Referring to Germany’s recent acquisitions of loitering munitions, he said Berlin is moving away from committing to large-scale, long-term contracts at the outset, and instead prioritising real-world testing before expanding purchases.

“We tested what they really offer — not just papers or videos,” he said, adding that Germany would proceed “step by step,” increasing orders only if systems prove effective, with the goal of fostering greater competition.

He did not provide details on the timeline or potential scale of a deal, but his remarks point to a broader strategic shift as Germany seeks to integrate more autonomous systems into its armed forces.

A potential agreement would also carry political significance. Germany has traditionally sourced key airpower capabilities from the US and European partners, and turning to an Australian-developed platform would mark a notable shift in defence procurement and industrial cooperation.

The comments came during Pistorius’ tour of the Indo-Pacific, which includes visits to Japan, Singapore and Australia, aimed at strengthening defence ties and exploring new partnerships in the region.

By Tamilla Hasanova