German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to Kyiv is of historic significance. During the visit, agreements totaling €8.3 billion were concluded. As reported by UNIAN, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this at a press conference; the news was also reported by the PromPolitInform portal.
According to Zelenskyy, it is not just Germany helping Ukraine; Ukraine is also sharing its knowledge and experience while placing orders with German manufacturers.
“This means jobs for Germany. And indeed, we plan to work across many areas. Regarding the industrial sector today—15 agreements have been signed. We will be placing significant orders with the German side,” Zelenskyy stated.
He noted that Ukraine and Germany are engaged in joint weapons production.
“It is important that today we heard about the test of our new interceptor. This is the German-Ukrainian ‘Spys’ [Spear] interceptor. The test was successful. We thank the company Quantum Systems,” Zelenskyy emphasized. Accordingly, a memorandum of understanding has been signed with Quantum Systems regarding the testing and procurement of interceptor drones designed to counter jet-powered “Shahed”-type drones.
As Zelenskyy reported, Ukraine and Germany are cooperating effectively on the development of “Bars” interceptors intended to shoot down jet-powered drones.
“Relevant production lines have been opened in Germany. We thank our German partners,” Zelenskyy stated.
Separately, a contract was signed with Quantum Systems to localize the production of Ukrainian drones in Germany for the National Guard of Ukraine.
“We are developing a new small missile, the ‘Nika,’ to counter jet-powered ‘Shaheds.’ Both the Germans and we are responding positively. Trials will take place. For now, we are assessing the potential benefits,” Zelenskyy said.
Ukraine is also working with Siemens.
“There are positive agreements regarding equipment units that will assist Naftogaz during the war,” Zelenskyy said, adding that the deal involves pumping equipment.
In this regard, Siemens Energy is indeed providing support and assistance.
Ordering IRIS-T missiles
As Zelenskyy reported, Ukraine has placed a large order for IRIS-T missiles with Diehl Defence.
“We are now placing orders—large packages,” Zelenskyy said.
Specifically, a memorandum of understanding regarding the procurement and delivery of thousands of IRIS-T missiles was signed today in Kyiv during the Ukrainian-German Business Forum. A memorandum of understanding was also signed regarding the procurement and supply of IRIS-T firing units and additional missile systems.
Another memorandum was signed concerning the development and procurement of precision-guided artillery ammunition.
Increasing Patriot missile production in Germany
“We will fully secure orders for the company in Germany—leveraging unique technologies—and strengthen our air defense capabilities; we will use funds from the second tranche of the European loan. We realize this will be a significant contribution,” the President said.
As Zelenskyy emphasized, Ukraine and Germany will work intensively on air defense development and on increasing the production of Patriot system missiles in Germany. “These are important agreements,” Zelenskyy stressed.
Separately, the President noted the start of work on creating the “Freya” anti-ballistic missile system.
“I think—God willing—we will achieve a positive result,” the Head of State said.
Work in this regard is underway with ten countries, among which Germany is demonstrating leadership.
Other agreements
As Zelenskyy added, there are also positive agreements regarding artillery.
“We thank Hensoldt for the radars. We will be placing orders with the Germans, and this will certainly strengthen us. This concerns the detection of enemy targets. We have begun working with Hensoldt,” Zelenskyy reported.
Specifically, a memorandum was signed with the Hensoldt corporation for the procurement of tactical, surveillance, and tracking radars. Zelenskyy also added that there would be another contract for air defense systems worth approximately €2 billion.
There is also an agreement with Amprion regarding assistance in getting through the winter period.
“And also 2,000 robotic ground systems for our military. We will continue to develop this area,” Zelenskyy announced.
Cooperation between Ukraine and Germany
As previously reported, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is developing four areas of weaponry to strengthen air defense against Russian jet-powered Shahed drones. Currently, the shoot-down rate for such drones is 50–60%, whereas for standard ones, it is up to 92%.
The President noted the effectiveness of “Bars” interceptors, the small missile program, and the development of turrets, while also emphasizing the importance of supplying ammunition for F-16s.
