Germany Orders MQ-9B Drones for Naval Surveillance

January 13, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1768313430278-1890

Germany Enhances Maritime Patrol Capabilities Amid NATO Priorities

Germany has ordered eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to enhance its maritime patrol posture. The Bundeswehr confirmed the purchase in January 2026, with first systems expected to enter service from 2028. The aircraft will be operated by Marinefliegergeschwader 3 ‘Graf Zeppelin’ at Nordholz and are intended for over-water operations in areas such as the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea. This move comes as Germany remains a core partner in the Eurodrone program, under which Berlin is due to receive seven systems.

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Key Takeaways

Germany orders eight MQ-9B drones.
Systems to be operated by Marinefliegergeschwader 3 ‘Graf Zeppelin’ at Nordholz.
Aircraft intended for over-water operations in North Atlantic and Baltic Sea.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems

Strategic Implications

This purchase may indicate Germany’s need for enhanced maritime surveillance capabilities. The MQ-9B could complement crewed P-8A Poseidon aircraft, providing persistence and continuous surveillance across wide areas. The integration of sensor data with naval platforms and allied units suggests a focus on interoperability.