The German defense company Rheinmetall has handed over another 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to Ukraine. The delivery is expected by the end of the third quarter of 2024.
Total Deliveries to Reach Approximately 200 Units
Under the "ring exchange" agreement, the total number of combat vehicles sent to Ukraine will reach about 200 units, with more than 100 of them being Marder 1A3 models.
Details of the Circular Exchange Agreement
- Additional Equipment: The agreement also includes the delivery of a double-digit number of other equipment, such as Marder IFVs and Leopard main battle tanks.
- Latest Batch Financing: The most recent batch of 20 Marder IFVs was ordered by the German government and financed in the mid-double-digit millions of euros.
Enhanced Capabilities with Marder 1A3 Models
The Marder 1A3 vehicles supplied to Ukraine are equipped with modern laser rangefinders, enhancing the accuracy of targeting on the battlefield. This technology significantly improves the vehicles' ability to counter enemy offensive actions, providing Ukrainian forces with an additional technological advantage.
Previous Deliveries and Orders
Rheinmetall initially received an order for these IFVs in March 2023 and has already completed the delivery of 20 units to Ukraine.
Germany's Military Aid to Ukraine
At the onset of the full-scale conflict, Germany provided Ukraine with the largest amount of military aid among European countries. This support has included:
- Patriot Air Defense Systems
- Leopard 2 Tanks
- PzH 2000 Self-Propelled Howitzers
- Various Other Weapons Systems
Future Support and Funding
Despite reports in August suggesting that new financing requests for assistance to Ukraine might not be approved, Germany has earmarked approximately €8 billion for military support in 2024. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius noted that the government is prepared to find additional resources to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine in 2024.
