German right to station anti-missile units abroad

The German defence ministry has confirmed that, under a new treaty with the United States, Germany could station anti-missile rockets outside its territory for the first time since the Second World War.

The new agreement allows Germany to deploy anti-missile units on soil beyond its borders, but within NATO.

The accord replaces another one which runs out at the end of this year.

Correspondents say it is another step away from the Germany's military constraints and comes at a time when the country is taking on increasing responsibility within NATO.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service