Germany said Monday it aims to expand its cooperation with Ukraine in developing high-tech weapons. “Berlin is committed to developing new weapons systems in collaboration with Ukraine,” Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told the German Press Agency (dpa) in Kyiv, where he arrived earlier in the morning. “Strengthening this cooperation as part of a strategic partnership is the main goal of the trip,” he added.
Deep strike capabilities
“The focus is on the joint development of state-of-the-art unmanned systems across all ranges, particularly in the area of ‘deep strike,'” he said. “Deep strike” refers to the capability to destroy key targets deep within an enemy country’s territory. European NATO partners have gaps in long-range weapons, analysts say. Pistorius said he believes it is necessary for NATO member states to act swiftly.
Battlefield experience
He added that the German government is pursuing plans for further joint ventures with Ukraine. “In doing so, we benefit from the Ukrainians’ experience on the battlefield. We also plan to use the ‘Brave One’ platform to support developers who can demonstrate promising innovations,” the minister said.
Strategic partnership
During intergovernmental consultations in mid-April, the German government agreed to a strategic partnership with Ukraine and pledged further military aid. Germany will finance a contract between Ukraine and Raytheon for several hundred Patriot missiles. An agreement was reached with Diehl for additional IRIS-T air defense launchers.
Drone production
The production of medium- and long-range drones was also agreed upon, with plans to establish a joint venture to deliver thousands of drones. The visit was not publicly announced.