The CEO of the German defense consortium Rheinmetall AG, Armin Papperger, revealed the circumstances that led to the delay in launching the new factory in Ukraine. According to him, the main obstacle was the decision by the Ukrainian side to change the location for the construction of the facility, which postponed the start of work.
This is reported by Business • Media
“Unfortunately, the construction of the ammunition factory in Ukraine is delayed. The factory was supposed to be operational by now. However, Ukraine wanted to change the location,” Papperger noted.
Plans for Manufacturing Combat Vehicles in Ukraine
Rheinmetall plans to establish production of modern combat vehicles in Ukraine, including models such as Fuchs, Lynx, and Panther. According to Papperger, the signing of the relevant contract is still awaited, as securing funding is necessary for its implementation, which requires significant investments. Production will only be economically viable if between 200 and 300 units of equipment are produced.
Large-Scale Investments and Development of Defense Infrastructure
In September, Ukraine provided a plot of land for the construction of the new Rheinmetall factory. In the long term, the consortium plans to open three facilities in the country: for the production and repair of air defense systems, repair and assembly of armored vehicles, as well as the manufacture of ammunition. This strategy aims to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities and provide it with modern military equipment.