German arms giant to power up Ukraine’s air defense with latest ammunition order

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has contracted German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall to deliver an additional batch of 35mm ammunition for its Gepard anti-aircraft guns. 

The order, placed in December 2024, consists of 180,000 rounds of High Explosive Incendiary with Tracer (HEI-T) ammunition. The total value of the order is in the high double-digit million-euro range and is being financed by Germany, Caliber.Az reports, quoting the company's press statement.

This latest order follows Rheinmetall's previous commitment in February 2023 to supply 300,000 rounds of Gepard ammunition to Ukraine. The new rounds will enhance Ukraine's capability to counter a range of airborne threats, including drones, bolstering its air defence efforts. The ammunition will be manufactured at Rheinmetall's facility in Unterlüß, where production capabilities were significantly upgraded in the spring of 2023 to meet the growing demand for 35mm rounds.

As of now, Germany has supplied Ukraine with a total of 55 Gepard anti-aircraft tanks, which were decommissioned from the Bundeswehr and have been operational in Ukraine's air defence for over two years. These tanks have proven highly effective in defending against aerial threats.

In addition to the Gepard ammunition, Rheinmetall has provided Ukraine with advanced air defense systems such as the Skynex, which uses programmable AHEAD (Advanced Hit Efficiency and Destruction) airburst ammunition. Rheinmetall is globally recognized as one of the leading manufacturers of complex air defense systems, particularly known for its cannon-based air defense technologies.

The company is the world’s leading producer of these systems and the sole provider of comprehensive fire control systems, integrated guided missile launchers, and protected missile systems. Its portfolio also includes cutting-edge air surveillance systems and radar technology, specializing in search and detection radars.

By Khagan Isayev