Germany's Ministry of Defence is planning a significant procurement of combat drones, potentially worth up to €4.3 billion, to bolster the Bundeswehr's capabilities. The deal involves initial contracts worth approximately €540 million for two German startups, Stark Defence and Helsing, which produce "loitering munition." However, the project is overshadowed by controversy surrounding US billionaire Peter Thiel, who holds a minority stake in Stark Defence. Concerns have been raised, particularly by the Green party, that Thiel's involvement could grant the MAGA movement access to sensitive Bundeswehr information. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has expressed shared concerns about Thiel's potential influence, stating that a decision will only be made after his actual operational influence is clarified. The final vote in the Bundestag's budget committee is scheduled for the upcoming Wednesday.