Rheinmetall and Ukraine sign agreement to expand their strategic cooperation

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “With this agreement we confirm our intention to continue our cooperation in the coming years and create a corresponding framework. Specifically, we are already in talks to establish a joint venture for the production of artillery ammunition in Ukraine. We also want to hand over the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicles to the country this year and start manufacturing these systems in Ukraine in the near future.”

Oleksandr Kamyshin, Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine: “The Ukrainian defence industry has been in decline for decades. But today it is reviving and making a significant contribution to Ukraine’s economic recovery – also thanks to partners like Rheinmetall. We are very grateful for your support and your confidence in the Ukrainian defence industry and our gunsmiths. And, of course, we will share the lessons we have learned with our partners. One day Ukraine will join the EU and NATO – and both organisations will have a strong partner with a strong defence industry that does not compete but complements. Let’s build the Arsenal of the free world together.”

In addition to possible direct deliveries by Rheinmetall, the (re)industrialization of national manufacturing know-how is also intended to make a significant contribution to Ukraine’s sustainable defence capability as part of the cooperation.

A framework agreement yet to be concluded for the delivery of several hundred Lynx combat vehicles to Ukraine would also include training, maintenance and repair services.

In February 2024, the two partners had already declared their intention to manufacture a six-digit number of 155mm rounds, including the corresponding propelling charges, per year in a “Ukrainian center of excellence for ammunition”. Rheinmetall is to hold 51% of the shares in the joint venture, with the Ukrainian partner holding 49%.