Germany is set to significantly boost its military support to Ukraine with a wide range of advanced weaponry and equipment. By early 2024, Germany plans to transfer two short- and medium-range air defense systems, 30 Leopard 1A5 tanks, 400 armored vehicles, and several other critical military assets to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This was confirmed by German Major General Christian Freuding during a program on the YouTube channel of the German Armed Forces.
The detailed list of Germany's planned military aid includes:
- 2 Iris-T SLM air defense systems: Medium-range systems capable of targeting threats within a 40 km radius and up to 25 km in altitude.
- 2 Iris-T SLS air defense systems: Short-range systems effective within a 10 km radius and up to 6 km in altitude.
- 10 Gepard anti-aircraft installations: Designed for close-range defense against aerial threats.
- Leopard 1A5 tanks: Approximately 30 units of this highly regarded main battle tank.
- 400 MRAP-based armored vehicles: Armored vehicles designed to withstand mine blasts and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
- 12 PzH 2000 self-propelled artillery units: Highly advanced German artillery systems known for their accuracy and range.
- 4 Zuzana 2 self-propelled guns: Slovak-made artillery units with excellent mobility and firepower.
- Zetros tank trucks and various types of vehicles: Including utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and minivans.
- Drones and anti-drone systems: To enhance Ukraine's surveillance and counter-drone capabilities.
- Small arms and ammunition: Including assault rifles and other essential munitions.
- Medical equipment and field hospitals: To support the medical needs of Ukrainian forces.
This comprehensive military aid package is part of Germany's ongoing commitment to support Ukraine's defense efforts against continued aggression. The inclusion of advanced air defense systems like the Iris-T SLM and SLS underscores the importance of enhancing Ukraine's ability to defend its airspace, while the provision of tanks, armored vehicles, and artillery will strengthen its ground operations.
