# German Ministry of Defense Evaluates Collaborative Combat Aircraft

The 2026 Berlin Air Show showcased significant procurement interest in advanced air defense systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with a particular focus on Germany's upcoming Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program targeting a 2029 acquisition. Boeing Australia and Rheinmetall presented the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone as a leading candidate, alongside competitors such as Helsing, Airbus, and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. This competitive environment reflects Germany's strategic push to modernize its air force capabilities amid rising global demand for air defense technologies driven by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

- The German Ministry of Defense is actively negotiating procurement contracts for the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone, with final contract discussions expected by 2027 to meet the 2029 delivery timeline.
- Procurement professionals should note the expanding market for air defense modernization and UAV systems in Europe, highlighting opportunities for vendors specializing in advanced aerospace technologies.
- Contractors and suppliers involved in drone development, aircraft engines, and unmanned systems may find increased demand as Germany and other European nations prioritize air defense capabilities.
- The Berlin Air Show serves as a critical platform for industry stakeholders to engage with German defense officials and position offerings for upcoming procurement programs.

**Jurisdictions:** federal, international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** June 11, 2026

### Government Entities
- German Ministry of Defense

### Vendors
- Boeing Australia (prime contractor)
- Rheinmetall (prime contractor)
- Helsing (prime contractor)
- Airbus (prime contractor)
- General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (prime contractor)

### Key Quotes
> At the moment, we are still in negotiations with the German government, but if they want to have the plane by 2029, my expectation is that by at least next year, we have to go into the final stage of negotiating the contract.
> — Armin Papperger, CEO, Rheinmetall

### Sources
- [Talking Italian attack helos and skyrocketing air defense demand at the Berlin Air Show](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/06/talking-italian-attack-helos-and-skyrocketing-air-defense-demand-at-the-berlin-air-show) - Breaking Defense
- [Drone wingmen face off at Berlin Air Show in race for German CCA - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/06/drone-wingmen-face-off-at-berlin-air-show-in-race-for-german-cca) - Breaking Defense