German soldiers train on a Stinger surface-to-air missile in this undated photo. The U.S. State Department gave initial approval Dec. 18, 2025, for a $136 million sale of Stingers and related supporting technology to a NATO procurement agency that supports German, Italian and Dutch acquisitions of the system. (Christian Timmig/German armed forces)
The United States has greenlit the potential sale of more Stinger warheads to multiple allies in Europe in a move aimed at beefing up NATO defenses.
The State Department gave initial approval Thursday for a $136 million sale of the portable surface-to-air missiles and related supporting technology to a NATO procurement agency that supports German, Italian and Dutch acquisitions of the system.
“The proposed sale will improve NATO Allies’ capability to meet current and future threats and enhance (coordination) with U.S. and other allied forces,” the agency said in a statement. “This proposed sale will contribute to U.S. and NATO defense goals by increasing readiness and enhancing the air defense capabilities of NATO Allies.”
The sale still requires congressional approval, which is typically a formality.
The Stinger has been used to great effect by Ukraine in its war against Russia and serves as a key element in the arsenal of any infantry unit facing an adversary with air power.
Ground forces can use the Stinger to shoot down helicopters, low-flying attack planes and drones, giving infantry units a flexible air defense while on the move.
The investment in more Stinger warheads comes as allies in Europe ramp up their defense spending to deter potential Russian aggression.
Allies also are working toward meeting NATO’s revised defense spending threshold, which calls for member countries to dedicate 5% of gross domestic product to military matters.