Rheinmetall’s Comprehensive Support to Ukraine: Ammunition, Vehicles, and Defense Systems

by Roman Cheplyk
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
2 MIN
Rheinmetall’s Comprehensive Support to Ukraine: Ammunition, Vehicles, and Defense Systems

Rheinmetall, a leading German arms manufacturer, is set to bolster Ukraine’s Armed Forces with a significant supply of ammunition, armored vehicles, and air defense systems in the upcoming years

The company, recognized for its capability to deliver a vast range of medium- and large-caliber ammunition, is committed to supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts.

Ammunition Supply: A Key Focus

Rheinmetall's contribution includes manufacturing and delivering 40,000 of the 300,000 35 mm cartridges for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank by the end of 2023. Additionally, the company is a pivotal supplier of 155-mm artillery ammunition to Ukraine, with several tens of thousands of shells already delivered and more expected in 2024. A notable order for 2025 has been placed by the German government for tens of thousands of cartridges, with a NATO member country also commissioning Rheinmetall for a significant supply of 155-mm ammunition to be manufactured by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions in Spain.

Joint Ventures and Production in Ukraine

In October 2023, Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian state company Ukroboronprom JSC initiated a joint venture in Kyiv—Rheinmetall Ukrainian Obonprom LLC—focusing on maintenance and repair of military equipment. Plans are underway to produce armored vehicles, including Fuchs/Fox armored personnel carriers, Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, and Panther main battle tanks, aiming to rejuvenate Ukraine's defense sector and ensure strategic autonomy.

Delivery of Armored Vehicles

Over 100 Marder infantry fighting vehicles have been delivered to Ukraine by Rheinmetall, with more expected in 2024. The company has also signed contracts for the supply of 25 Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks, alongside five armored recovery vehicles and two Leopard 1 tanks for training purposes, slated for delivery in 2024. Additionally, 14 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks are being supplied on behalf of the Netherlands and Denmark.

Air Defense and Medical Support

Rheinmetall's Skynex air defense systems, renowned for their effectiveness and cost-efficiency, have been introduced to Ukraine, with continued supply throughout 2024. The HX trucks, known for their robustness and versatility, are being utilized in Ukraine, with 26 new ones recently delivered. Furthermore, Rheinmetall has contributed to Ukraine's medical capabilities by donating a field hospital and rescue stations, enhancing the medical and intensive care facilities for the Ukrainian military.

Rheinmetall's unwavering support through the provision of critical military equipment, ammunition, and medical supplies demonstrates a strong commitment to Ukraine's defense and recovery efforts, showcasing the company's role in shaping Ukraine's path towards resilience and autonomy in defense capabilities.

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