France, Germany Team Up on European Missile Early Warning System
France and Germany have signed an agreement to jointly develop a European missile early warning system, combining space- and ground-based sensors to strengthen continental defense.
The Jewel (Joint Early Warning for a European Lookout) initiative will serve as the foundation of the ODIN’s Eye project, integrating a constellation of early warning satellites with a network of ground-based radars harnessing both existing and next-generation technologies.
ODIN’s Eye is a European multinational program focused on developing a satellite-based early warning capability against ballistic and hypersonic missile threats.
Led by Germany’s OHB System, the ODIN’s Eye II program brings together a consortium of 43 companies from 14 nations and is funded by the European Union with an investment of 96.6 million euros ($112 million).
The second phase covers the definition, development, integration, and verification of the complete mission and system simulator.
Operational by 2030
Meanwhile, the Franco-German initiative is intended to enable real-time data exchange through a common interface, while also supporting future participation from other European partners.
Its space-based segment is expected to become operational by 2030.
The project aims to detect and track threats and transmit data to initiate appropriate countermeasures, including interception.
The capability will comprise various sensors, including infrared and radar, deployable in space and on terrestrial platforms.
“By launching Jewel, France and Germany are fully assuming their leading role in building a European early warning capability, combining space, land, and command resources within a fully European and sovereign framework,” the French Ministry of the Armed Forces stated.
“By strengthening the European pillar of the Alliance, this initiative contributes to NATO’s missile defense.
The French and German teams will now work to promote the Jewel initiative with other European partners.”
