German arms exports surged by 30% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, hitting €7.48 billion. Despite the coalition government’s pledge to limit arms sales, exports to Ukraine made up two-thirds of the total, reaching a record high of €4.88 billion. The arms deliveries include air defense systems and heavy artillery to support Ukraine against Russia.
Other top recipients of German weapons include Singapore, India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Berlin resumed arms sales to Saudi Arabia after easing restrictions imposed due to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The Ministry stressed that exports to Saudi Arabia were connected to joint projects with NATO or EU partners.
Left-wing parties criticized the increase in arms exports, calling it “irresponsible” and accusing Chancellor Scholz’s coalition of betraying their election promises. Concerns were raised about the potential escalation of conflicts due to Germany’s arms sales policies.