Rheinmetall and Ukraine signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) a few days ago during the “Ukraine Recovery Conference” in Berlin to expand their strategic cooperation. The agreement aims to identify and develop further areas for closer cooperation between the Ukrainian defense industry and the German technology group.
In addition to possible direct deliveries by Rheinmetall, the (re)industrialization of national manufacturing expertise is also intended to make a significant contribution to Ukraine’s sustainable defence capability as part of the cooperation. Back in February, the two partners announced their intention to produce a six-digit number of 155-millimetre projectiles – including the corresponding propelling charges – per year in a “Ukrainian Center of Excellence for Ammunition” (-> Rheinmetall plans to produce ammunition in Ukraine).
“We want to hand over the first lynx infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine this year.
”
Rheinmetall-Chef Armin Papperger
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, responded to this in his statement: “With this agreement, we are confirming our intention to continue our cooperation in the coming years and creating a corresponding framework. Specifically, we are already in talks to establish a joint venture for the production of artillery ammunition in Ukraine. We also want to hand over the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicles to the country this year (-> Rheinmetall: Tank production in Ukraine from 2024) and start manufacturing these systems in Ukraine in the near future.” https://militaeraktuell.at/f-35-solo-display-bei-der-airpower-2024/ Part of a framework agreement yet to be concluded for the delivery of several hundred Lynx combat vehicles to Ukraine would also include training, maintenance and repair services, the company announced. Oleksandr Kamyshin, Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine, said: “The Ukrainian defense industry was in decline for decades. But today it is reviving and making an important contribution to Ukraine’s economic upswing – also thanks to partners like Rheinmetall. We are very grateful for Rheinmetall’s support and trust in the Ukrainian defense industry.”
Here for further reports on Rheinmetall.
