The U.

S. government has approved the potential sale of up to 600 Patriot missiles to Germany, a deal valued at approximately $5 billion.

This move aims to bolster Germany's air defense capabilities in response to NATO's new defense plans, which require Germany to quadruple its air defense systems to protect its infrastructure and military forces.

The primary contractor for this deal is Lockheed Martin, a major U.

S. defense company.

The Patriot missile system, known for its advanced technology, can target enemy aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.

Germany has previously supplied several of these systems to Ukraine to aid in defense against Russian air attacks.

The U.

S. Department of State has informed Congress of the deal, which still requires congressional approval.

The timeline for the delivery of these missiles remains uncertain, as such defense deals typically span several years.