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German defence manufacturer Rheinmetall has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Ukrainian state-owned defence group, Ukroboronprom.
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A cooperation agreement signed by both parties is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s defence industry and allow the creation of joint defence technology capabilities to reside in Ukraine from mid-July this year.
In addition, the agreement features the capacity for comprehensive transfer of technology and short-term delivery of military equipment from Germany, according to a public statement made by Rheinmetall on 13 May.
Rheinmetall chief executive Armin Papperger said Rheinmetall is working closely with the German government, assuring that help reaches Ukraine as quickly and efficiently as possible.
“Meeting Ukraine’s urgent needs in its fight for freedom and democracy as quickly as possible is a matter of central importance to us at Rheinmetall,” he said.
“Thanks to its expertise and capabilities, Rheinmetall has what it takes to be a valuable and powerful partner to Ukraine both in the short term and in the long run.
“We are pleased to have Ukroboronprom, led by Yuriy Husyev, as a very capable and trustworthy partner at our side.”
Papperger said the company is supporting the people of Ukraine in the form of humanitarian aid, financial support or military equipment.
Initially, the agreement will support the maintenance and repair of vehicles transferred to Ukraine under the German government’s multilateral “Ringtausch” equipment exchange project.
In later phases, cooperation partners intend to jointly produce selected Rheinmetall products in Ukraine. This could include joint development of military systems by teams of Ukrainian and German specialists, including for subsequent export from Ukraine.
Ukroboronprom general director Yuriy Husyev said Ukraine is thankful to Rheinmetall for their willingness to help defeat Russia.
“I am honoured to set up the joint venture between one of the world’s leading manufacturers in the defence industry, Rheinmetall, and leading full scale operating Ukrainian defence producer,” he said.
“(This agreement increases) the production of military equipment and armoured vehicles despite of numerous Russian missiles attacks.
“We will do all our best to make this cooperation useful to defence forces of Ukraine as soon as possible.”
