German Chancellor Olaf Scholz officially confirmed the arrival of another Patriot Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system to Ukraine, the transfer of which was announced in October of this year. It is expected to be put into operation by the end of 2023, meaning it will start protecting Ukraine in the coming days.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in a government statement in the Bundestag.
Read more: Group of Ukrainian Military Personnel Has Started the Patriot Training Course – German Air Force
Taking into account the need to prepare the Patriot SAM system for transfer and to train Ukrainian military personnel, its transfer occurred much faster than before. At that time, only the training lasted just over two months.
Additionally, this SAM system from Germany is being transferred independently in its entirety. Germany and the Netherlands previously transferred another Patriot SAM System together. Furthermore, the United States independently transferred another SAM system to Ukraine earlier.
Thus, in the near future, Ukraine will be defended by three Patriot SAM systems, capable of destroying ballistic missiles. This will enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian anti-missile defense, which is currently limited to only two Patriot SAM systems and one SAMP/T.
Scholz said: "All of this is urgently needed. Because russia has now put its economy entirely at the service of this war. russian weapons production is running at full speed."
Moreover, he noted that there may arise a situation where Germany will need to significantly increase assistance to Ukraine.
In addition, armored vehicles, ammunition and winter protective clothing for the Ukrainian armed forces as well as power generators to bridge energy shortages will be provided.
It will be recalled that on October 10 it became known that Germany handed over a military aid package worth one billion euros to Ukraine. The main emphasis in it was on air defense equipment.
Germany announced an aid package for Ukraine in November, including Leopard 1A5 Tanks, Bandvagn 206 and Warthog Vehicles, Trucks, UAVs and More.
Read more: Ukrainian Air Defense Operators Break Records of Training on Patriot System. Once Again
