Germany has delivered a substantial military aid package to Ukraine, featuring 15 Leopard 1 A5 tanks, two Patriot missile launchers, and an IRIS-T air defense system, marking another step in Berlin's ongoing support for Kyiv's defense efforts.
The comprehensive package, announced by the German Ministry of Defense, addresses Ukraine's pressing need for enhanced air defense capabilities amid continued Russian missile attacks. The delivery comes at a critical time, as Ukraine recently used Patriot systems to intercept ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv on December 20, though falling debris still resulted in two deaths and 13 injuries.
Beyond the headline items, the package includes two Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems with spare parts and three HIMARS systems, which Ukraine has effectively used to target Russian ammunition depots. The delivery also features 30 mine-protected MRAP vehicles, one PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, and seven Caracal air-landing vehicles.
The German support extends to essential military supplies, including winter clothing, spare parts for MiG-29 fighter jets, ammunition, and drone detection systems. Specifically, Ukraine received 52,000 155mm shells, 65,000 rounds for Gepard systems, and ammunition for both Leopard 1 and 2 tanks.
While Germany has emerged as one of Ukraine's major military supporters since Russia's invasion in February 2022, Berlin continues to hesitate on providing Taurus long-range cruise missiles, which Ukraine seeks for targeting Russian-occupied territories beyond the front lines.
This latest delivery aligns with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent emphasis on the urgent need for air defense systems, particularly Patriots, to counter ongoing Russian missile attacks.