Germany will supply Ukraine with 2 additional Patriot rocket defence systems from its own Bundeswehr resources. Friedrich Merz's government decided to immediately support alternatively of waiting for fresh deliveries from the US. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) besides announced backing for Ukrainian drone production.
Initially, the German government planned to acquisition 2 fresh Patriot systems straight from the Americans and hand them over to Ukraine. However, due to a fewer months of delays in deliveries, Berlin has chosen another solution.
Two sets of Patriots are now serving in the German army. Replacement launchers purchased in the US will be delivered to Germany at a later date.
Patriots of the Bundeswehr or Jasionka
It is not yet clear whether Ukraine will receive systems from the German Army's equipment, or whether Germany will scope for batteries protecting Jasionka Airport. The Podrzeszow hub is the most crucial point of military aid for Ukraine.
The Bundeswehr has so far donated to Ukraine 3 of the 12 Patriot systems held. The next 2 German systems were moved to safety at Jasionka Airport.
Ukraine needs 5 additional systems
According to Minister Pistorius' estimates, Ukraine needs an additional 5 Patriot systems to effectively defend itself against Russian attacks. Norway is besides to participate in the "European mechanism" to acquisition these systems.
Other European countries may besides join the initiative. Details of global cooperation are yet to be agreed between stakeholders.
Financing Ukrainian drones
Germany will besides finance part of Ukrainian combat drone production. «First machines financed by Germany will be delivered to the Ukrainian armed forces in the coming days and can be utilized immediately» - announced Pistorius at the online gathering of the contact group on Ukraine.
The decision to transfer Patriot systems from its own resources shows Germany's determination to support Ukrainian anti-aircraft defence. The Minister stressed the urgent request to strengthen Ukrainian defence capabilities against Russian rocket attacks.
(PAP) Note: This article was edited with Artificial Intelligence.
