Ukraine Orders Rheinmetall Ammunition for Gepard Gun
Ukraine has officially commissioned Rheinmetall to supply 35mm ammunition for its Gepard anti-aircraft guns. This substantial order, funded by Germany, encompasses a total of 180,000 rounds of High Explosive Incendiary with Tracer (HEI-T) ammunition. While the exact financial value of the order remains undisclosed, Rheinmetall has indicated that it falls within the high double-digit million-euro range.
The HEI-T ammunition is particularly effective against a range of airborne threats, including drones, highlighting its strategic importance in modern warfare. Rheinmetall plans to produce this ammunition at its facility in Unterlüß, southern Germany, where it recently expanded production capabilities in 2023. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2026, marking a crucial step in enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
Boosting Ammunition Production
In response to the escalating demands of warfare, Rheinmetall announced last year that it would significantly ramp up its ammunition production capacity. The company emphasized that the current demand for artillery shells is exceptionally high, driven not only by Ukraine’s urgent needs but also by the necessity to replenish the severely depleted stockpiles of Germany and other NATO and EU countries.
This move comes as Rheinmetall continues to expand its role in supporting Ukraine, as evidenced by a contract secured in February 2023 for 300,000 rounds of ammunition specifically for the Gepard anti-aircraft tanks. Additionally, the firm signed a contract worth 142 million euros ($154 million) to supply 155mm artillery ammunition to Ukraine, with deliveries expected within the year.
Strengthening Germany-Ukraine Relations
Germany has emerged as one of the leading contributors to military assistance and troop support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. Since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022, Berlin has provided military equipment valued at approximately 5.2 billion euros ($5.7 billion) from its own army reserves, showcasing a strong commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Moreover, in December 2024, the German government approved a new military aid package for Ukraine, which includes Leopard 1A5 tanks and various air defense systems. This continued support underscores the deepening ties between Germany and Ukraine, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing security challenges in the region.
