Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian government, represented by the Minister of Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand their strategic co-operation.
The agreement, signed during the Ukraine Recovery Conference, held on 11-12 June 2024 in Berlin, aims to identify and develop further areas for closer cooperation between the Ukrainian defence industry and the Düsseldorf-based technology group.
“With this agreement we confirm our intention to continue our co-operation in the coming years and create a corresponding framework,” stated Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall. “Specifically, we are already in talks to establish a joint venture for the production of artillery ammunition in Ukraine. We also want to hand over the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to the country this year and start manufacturing these systems in Ukraine in the near future.”
Kamyshin added, “The Ukrainian defence industry has been in decline for decades, but today it is reviving and making a significant contribution to Ukraine’s economic recovery – also thanks to partners like Rheinmetall. We are very grateful for your support and your confidence in the Ukrainian defence industry and our gunsmiths. And, of course, we will share the lessons we have learned with our partners. One day Ukraine will join the EU and NATO, and both organisations will have a strong partner with a strong defence industry that does not compete but complements. Let’s build the arsenal of the free world together.”
In addition to possible direct deliveries by Rheinmetall, the reindustrialisation of Ukrainian manufacturing know-how is also intended to make a significant contribution to the country’s sustainable defence capability.
A framework agreement yet to be concluded for the delivery of several hundred Lynx IFVs to Ukraine will also include training, maintenance and repair services.
In February 2024 Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian government had already declared their intention to manufacture a six-digit number of 155 mm rounds, including the corresponding propelling charges, per year in a Ukrainian centre of excellence for ammunition. Rheinmetall is to hold 51% of the shares in the joint venture, with the Ukrainian partner holding 49%.
