On October 1 local time, German Defense Minister Pistorius stated during an inspection of new Bundeswehr equipment in Lower Saxony in northern Germany that the German Armed Forces will establish its first regimental-level unit specifically responsible for unmanned systems operations in 2027, with plans to achieve initial operational capability within that year.

The new unit will initially have a strength of approximately 300 personnel, with a final target size of 600.

Pistorius stated that the new unit will concentrate and integrate the Bundeswehr's unmanned systems operational capabilities, undertaking missions including reconnaissance, strikes, and interception of enemy drones. Its equipment will include not only drones but also unmanned ground systems, with an overall operational range covering from close distances up to 500 kilometers.

The unit will also establish a company-level element specifically responsible for electromagnetic warfare.

According to German sources, loitering munitions currently undergoing testing by the Bundeswehr are also planned to be equipped to this unit in the future.

On the same day, German Chancellor Merz stated in Münster that German engineers are developing a new interception system targeting jet-powered drones, which will soon enter mass production.

Merz also stated that Germany has gained experience from Ukraine in recent years, including in drone defense and operational digitization.