‘Designed for China fight’: US startup unveils low-cost missile as arms stocks dwindle
US defense startup Covenant plans to mass-produce the low-cost 'Anthem' cruise missile in Germany by 2027 to address depleted munitions stocks among Western allies. The company aims to provide a cheaper alternative to traditional defense contractor weapons amid rising global tensions.
Why it matters
The move reflects a shift in defense procurement toward agile, cost-effective manufacturing to sustain long-term military readiness.
US defence startup Covenant plans to begin mass production of its low-cost Anthem cruise missile in Germany in early 2027, targeting European demand for long-range weapons as the United States and its allies seek to replenish advanced munitions stocks depleted by recent conflicts.Covenant says Anthem has been designed for rapid, high-volume production at a lower cost than comparable weapons made by major defence contractors. Its Saxony facility is expected to initially produce 1,000 missiles a year from 2027, eventually reaching a capacity of 5,000 annually, company executives told news agency Reuters.The announcement comes amid growing concern over US stockpiles of advanced weapons following sustained military operations, including the war with Iran.Multiple reports have highlighted concerns among US military commanders over critically low stocks of certain munitions, particularly air-defence interceptors.On September 6, US government investigators had subjected around 50 members of the military's Joint Staff to polygraph tests during an investigation…
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