Airbus Chairman of the Board Rene Obermann, in his statement at the Berlin Security Conference, called on European countries to develop a joint tactical nuclear deterrence programme against nuclear threats from Russia. Emphasising that security risks in the region are increasing, Obermann said that Europe has a critical gap in nuclear capability.
Describing Russia’s nuclear capabilities as Europe’s “Achilles’ heel”, Obermann drew attention to the more than 500 tactical nuclear warheads reportedly located in Iskander 26 missiles deployed in Kaliningrad, as well as the newly positioned missiles in Belarus. He stated that these deployments represent a “direct threat at Europe’s doorstep”.
“Europe cannot be deterrent without developing tactical nuclear capability”
Obermann stressed that Germany, France, the United Kingdom and other willing EU countries should agree on a joint and phased nuclear deterrence programme that includes the tactical level. He emphasised that such an initiative would be “a major signal of deterrence” demonstrating Europe’s resolve against potential threats from Russia.
The Airbus Chairman also noted that Europe’s need for nuclear deterrence goes beyond existing strategic capabilities, stating that tactical nuclear weapon capacity must also be incorporated into the security architecture. Pointing out that current nuclear-sharing arrangements are insufficient on their own, Obermann said that Europe should focus on strengthening its own defence capabilities.
With his remarks at the conference, Obermann’s call is expected to create a new platform for discussion within Europe’s security strategy.
