Representatives of the German government have signed the first contract to finance the production of long-range weapons in Ukraine. This is the result of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s promise to support Kyiv in ramping up production capacities for modern armaments.
This is reported by Business • Media
Production of New Drones and Their Specifications
According to the terms of the contract, over 500 kamikaze drones “Antonov-196” will be manufactured in Ukraine. These UAVs are capable of covering a distance of up to 1,200 kilometers, carrying a warhead weighing approximately 50 kilograms. The first drones are expected to be ready within the coming months.
The Ukrainian side already has experience in producing similar weapons and continues to improve them. As noted by the publication, Ukrainian AN-196 drones have been used again to strike targets deep in the rear of the Russian Federation.
Deepening Military-Industrial Cooperation Between Ukraine and Germany
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, while in Kyiv, announced plans to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the defense industry. German companies, including MBDA, Quantum Systems, Diehl, FFG, and Helsing, are showing significant interest in joint projects in the fields of air defense, artillery, as well as reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial vehicles.
Merz also stated that the issue of supplying long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine remains “on the table,” but the problem is that this system is extremely complex, and training soldiers to use it may take about six months.
With Germany’s support, Ukraine continues to enhance its own defense production capabilities and expands cooperation with leading European defense enterprises.