Germany to Deploy Second Patriot Air Defense System in Ukraine This Year

Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to support Ukraine's defense capabilities, with the announcement that the second Patriot air defense system promised by Germany will be launched in Ukraine this year.

The declaration came from German Chancellor Scholz during a session in the Bundestag on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.

Chancellor Scholz emphasized the importance of enhancing Ukraine's ability to defend against Russian drones and missiles, noting the improved defense capabilities resulting from the first Patriot SAM transfer. Alongside the air defense system, Germany will provide Ukraine with armored vehicles, ammunition, sets of winter clothing, and power generators to address electricity shortages.

In October, the German Defense Ministry had announced the intention to send additional Patriot and IRIS-T systems to Ukraine, without specifying the delivery timeline. Subsequently, in November, German Ambassador Martin Jäger confirmed the deployment of another Patriot air defense system during the winter.

Furthermore, Germany has completed the training of a second group of Ukrainian soldiers, comprising approximately 70 soldiers and officers, to operate the Patriot air defense system independently. The training, lasting over six weeks, included experienced Ukrainian officers with a background in air defense units, some of whom had prior experience with the Soviet-era S-300 surface-to-air missile system.

Ukraine had received the first Patriot SAM from Germany in April 2023, following comprehensive training for Ukrainian operators that began in early February. The continuous support from Germany reflects the ongoing collaboration to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities in the face of escalating tensions.