Boris Pistorius is travelling to the United States for Pentagon talks with US counterpart Pete Hegseth and subsequent meetings in New York with UN officials, including Secretary‑General António Guterres. Discussions in New York will focus on the future of UN peacekeeping missions. On Friday Pistorius will visit Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth ahead of the delivery of Germany's first F‑35 jets, set to replace ageing Tornado combat aircraft.
Germany's Defence Minister Pistorius Heads to US for Pentagon Talks and First F‑35 Visit
FILE PHOTO - Boris Pistorius, German Minister of Defence, speaks at a public forum in a beer garden. (is associated with: «German Defence Minister Pistorius heads to US for talks with Hegseth») Michael Matthey/dpa
Germany's Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is travelling to the United States for a series of high‑level meetings, including talks at the Pentagon and discussions with United Nations officials in New York.
A Defence Ministry spokesman said Pistorius is scheduled to meet his American counterpart, Pete Hegseth, at the Pentagon on Tuesday. The two last met in Washington in the summer of 2025.
New York Meetings Focused on UN Peacekeeping
After Washington, Pistorius will travel to New York for meetings with UN representatives, including Secretary‑General António Guterres. The talks are expected to concentrate on the future direction and reform of UN peacekeeping missions and Germany's role in supporting international stability.
Visit to Lockheed Martin and the F‑35 Delivery
On Friday, the minister will visit Lockheed Martin's facility in Fort Worth, Texas, where the company is preparing to deliver the first F‑35 stealth jets ordered by Germany. These aircraft are intended to replace the German Air Force's ageing Tornado combat jets, marking a major step in modernising Germany's air capabilities.
Significance: The trip underscores Germany's commitment to transatlantic defence cooperation, NATO interoperability and contributions to UN peacekeeping efforts, while highlighting a pivotal procurement milestone for the Luftwaffe.
Further briefings from the Defence Ministry are expected to clarify any follow‑up agreements or timelines resulting from the visits.
Help us improve.
