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Germany Ramps Up Military Aid to Ukraine with IRIS-T, Patriot Missiles, and EW Systems as US Support Wavers.
During the latest meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group held in Ramstein, Germany unveiled a new, ambitious military assistance plan aimed at significantly reinforcing Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. Funded through a special budget of over €11 billion approved in March for the period up to 2029, the package stands out for the scope and diversity of the equipment included.
The German Ministry of Defence confirmed the delivery of four IRIS-T air defense systems, potentially consisting of two IRIS-T SLM medium-range units and four IRIS-T SLS short-range launchers, along with 300 associated missiles (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)
The German Ministry of Defence confirmed the delivery of four IRIS-T air defense systems, potentially consisting of two IRIS-T SLM medium-range units and four IRIS-T SLS short-range launchers, along with 300 associated missiles. The IRIS-T SLM system is capable of intercepting aerial targets at medium range with high precision, using an AESA multi-function radar and vertical launch system. The IRIS-T SLS is designed for short-range engagements and neutralizing low-altitude threats, offering increased flexibility on the battlefield. This comprehensive configuration aims to bolster Ukraine’s air defense network in response to persistent aerial threats.
Additionally, 30 Patriot MIM-104 missiles from Bundeswehr stockpiles have already been delivered. The Patriot MIM-104 is a mobile medium-to-long-range air defense system capable of engaging aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic threats. Its modular architecture enables enhanced interoperability and large-area coverage, thereby strengthening Ukraine’s strategic air defense layer.
On the ground, German support includes the delivery of 25 Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles and 15 Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks. The Marder 1A3 is a tracked armored vehicle equipped with a 20mm cannon, designed to transport infantry squads under armor and provide direct fire support. The Leopard 1A5, while an older generation model, features a modernized fire control system and remains effective for support operations in diverse terrain. These vehicles will enhance Ukraine’s ability to maneuver effectively and conduct both offensive and defensive operations.
Artillery capabilities will also be significantly reinforced with the delivery of 14 artillery systems and approximately 130,000 155mm shells. This large volume of ammunition is expected to sustain pressure along the front lines.
In close-range defense and battlefield surveillance, Germany plans to supply 120 man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), 300 reconnaissance drones, and 100 ground surveillance radars. A significant expansion is also under consideration, with up to 1,100 additional radars potentially to be delivered in the future.
Germany has also announced the formation of a new capability coalition focused on electronic warfare, currently involving ten partner nations. This initiative is specifically designed to equip and train Ukrainian forces in this critical domain, which plays a central role in modern conflicts by disrupting communications and enemy electronic systems.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized that these deliveries reflect a long-term strategic approach, indicating that negotiations are ongoing for the provision of additional IRIS-T systems in the coming years. This future-oriented perspective underlines Germany’s sustained commitment to Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his appreciation for the new German assistance package aimed at reinforcing Ukraine’s air defense, following a phone call with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Speaking at the Contact Group meeting in Brussels, Minister Pistorius described the announcement of the four additional IRIS-T systems and accompanying missiles as “the best news of the day.”
He also highlighted the recent delivery of 30 guided Patriot missiles from German stocks, intended to supplement existing systems already provided to Ukraine. He stressed the importance of a collective effort not only during the conflict but also in preparing for the post-war period, reaffirming Germany’s enduring commitment to Ukraine’s security.
With this broad array of systems, Ukraine will be better equipped to protect critical infrastructure against air and drone attacks, sustain artillery operations along the front, and improve combined arms maneuver capabilities using modern armored vehicles. Electronic warfare capabilities will complement this posture by targeting enemy communication and navigation systems.
This substantial military assistance package illustrates Berlin’s determination to support Ukraine while reaffirming Germany’s central role in the international coalition backing Kyiv against Russian aggression. By providing a balanced mix of artillery, air defense, armored vehicles, and advanced electronic warfare systems, Germany positions itself as a key player in efforts to stabilize the regional security environment. This momentum also unfolds in a broader geopolitical context marked by growing uncertainty surrounding future U.S. support—highlighted by statements from Donald Trump and hesitation among some members of Congress. In this climate, the strengthened role of European partners, particularly Germany, becomes increasingly strategic for ensuring the continuity of support to Ukraine in the long term.