Netherlands Allocates €400 Million for Drone Production
The Netherlands has announced a significant contribution of €400 million for the production of drones for Ukraine, with up to half of them to be manufactured domestically. This investment aims to enhance Ukraine's aerial reconnaissance and combat capabilities amid ongoing conflicts.
Germany Provides Armored Recovery Vehicles and Air Defense Systems
Germany plans to remove 21 Bergepanzer 2 armored recovery vehicles from storage, based on the Leopard 1 tank, convert them into engineering demining machines—likely in the Wisent 1 variant—and supply them to Ukraine. This move will bolster Ukraine's capabilities in battlefield engineering and mine clearance.
Last week, Germany delivered a battery of IRIS-T SLM air defense systems, partially financed by Norway, and two launchers of the IRIS-T SLS air defense system to Ukraine. These advanced systems will significantly strengthen Ukraine's air defense network against aerial threats.
152-mm Artillery Shells from Turkey
Ukrainian forces have been observed using 152-mm artillery shells of Turkish origin, compatible with Soviet-era howitzers like the 2A65 Msta-B. These shells, featuring plastic casings, are believed to have been produced after the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. The introduction of these munitions highlights Ukraine's efforts to diversify its artillery ammunition sources.
Slovakia Supplies Artillery Ammunition
A civilian initiative in Slovakia successfully delivered 122 tons of artillery ammunition to Ukraine. Funds were raised as a form of protest against the Slovak government's refusal, under Prime Minister Robert Fico, to provide military aid to Ukraine. This grassroots support underscores the solidarity of the Slovak people with Ukraine.
Lithuania Contributes Locally Produced FPV Drones
In Lithuania, the first batch of domestically produced First-Person View (FPV) drones has arrived at military warehouses. A portion of these drones is designated for transfer to Ukraine, enhancing its capabilities in surveillance and precision targeting.
Norway Invests $90 Million to Boost Defense Production
The Norwegian government has agreed to allocate $90 million to increase defense production. The investment focuses on assembling rocket engines for missile defense systems and producing explosives. Part of this production is expected to support Ukraine's defense needs.
Additional Military Aid and Developments
- France: French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced that Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets will be delivered to Ukraine in the first quarter of 2025. These aircraft are undergoing modernization to include air-to-surface strike capabilities and electronic warfare systems. According to Avions Légendaires, France plans to transfer between 12 and 20 Mirage 2000-5F units.
Summary
The recent influx of military aid from European nations reflects a continued commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense efforts. From advanced air defense systems and armored vehicles to artillery shells and drones, these contributions are enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing tensions.
