Jerusalem, 26 August, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Despite Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s recent declaration of an arms embargo on Israel following the escalation of fighting in Gaza, Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems announced on Tuesday that the German Bundestag has approved the acquisition of 90 Litening 5 advanced targeting and reconnaissance pods for the Luftwaffe’s Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft.

According to Rafael, the decision highlights both the longstanding defense partnership between Germany and the Israeli company and continued confidence in Rafael’s systems. It also reflects a global shift toward multi-spectral sensors and precision strike capabilities designed to operate from standoff ranges in contested air environments.

The Litening 5 is Rafael’s fifth-generation electro-optical targeting pod for air-to-ground missions. It is currently in operational service with 28 air forces worldwide. To date, more than 2,000 units have been delivered, with over 2.2 million operational flight hours accumulated—making it one of the most widely deployed targeting pod systems globally.

The system offers high-resolution day and night imaging, short- and medium-wave infrared capabilities, dual-wavelength laser designation, and advanced reconnaissance features. Its modular design allows for integration across more than 26 different aircraft platforms, providing mission flexibility and interoperability.

Germany’s decision to upgrade from the Litening 3 to the newer Litening 5 model reflects satisfaction with the system’s proven performance, placing emphasis on precision, survivability, and future adaptability. The move is in line with a broader European defense trend: prioritizing the enhancement of sensor and targeting capabilities over the procurement of entirely new platforms.

Rafael emphasized that the Bundestag’s approval not only reinforces Germany’s operational capabilities but also underscores the company’s role as a trusted partner in advanced defense technology.

Sveta Listratov

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