LONDON — In a significant move to bolster European security in response to the escalating threat from Russia, German submarine-hunting aircraft will begin patrolling the North Atlantic from a base in Scotland, according to a new defense agreement between Britain and Germany. This pact is described as the first of its kind, aimed at enhancing the collaborative defense posture of both nations.

The agreement will be formalized as British and German defense ministers meet in London on Wednesday. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting that both countries are committed to enhancing their defense capabilities across multiple domains including air, land, sea, and cyber. By strengthening their collaboration, they aim to fortify NATO’s eastern flank and address crucial gaps in military capabilities, particularly in the area of long-range strike systems.

This pact comes in the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022, underscoring the urgency for collective defense measures. As part of the new arrangement, German aircraft designed for submarine detection will operate intermittently from a military installation in Scotland, which will facilitate regular patrols over the North Atlantic. Additionally, both nations are focused on safeguarding essential underwater cables in the North Sea, enhancing critical infrastructure protection.

Moreover, Britain and Germany plan to prioritize the joint development of advanced long-range strike weapons that can exceed the reach of the U.K.’s current Storm Shadow missiles. In a parallel initiative, German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall is expected to establish a production facility for artillery gun barrels in the UK, utilizing British steel.

The agreement also emphasizes the operational integration of British and German forces assigned to NATO missions in Estonia and Lithuania. This cooperation will ensure that the land forces stationed on NATO’s eastern border are effectively coordinated, maintaining a strong deterrent posture and readiness for any potential conflict.

In addition to these developments, there are plans for both countries to collaborate on the creation of new land-based and aerial drones, further enhancing their military capabilities in a rapidly changing security landscape.