Ukraine Secures Expanded Air Defence Cooperation with Germany

Ukraine has signed an agreement with German arms manufacturer Diehl Defence to increase the supply of IRIS T air defence systems and missiles. The memorandum of understanding, signed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, will result in a threefold increase in missile deliveries, further strengthening Ukraine’s ability to protect its cities and infrastructure from Russian attacks.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov expressed gratitude to Diehl Defence for its trust and cooperation, stating that leading defence companies are recognising Ukraine’s role in protecting the free world. The IRIS T system has been a critical component of Ukraine’s air defence, with the country actively using both SLS and SLM variants to counter missile and drone threats.

Germany has already pledged additional support for Ukraine’s air defences. In February, Berlin announced the delivery of 100 guided missiles for Ukraine’s IRIS T systems. These missiles will enhance Ukraine’s capability to counter Russian airstrikes, which continue to target critical infrastructure and civilian areas.

Ukraine is also expanding its defence cooperation with the United Kingdom. On 2 March, Kyiv and London signed an agreement for the supply of 5,000 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) and the transfer of production technologies. This initiative, supported by British defence company Thales and financed through UK Export Finance, is expected to be completed by 2030. The UK will produce the missiles, while Ukraine will establish local production facilities to integrate the acquired technology.