Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially announced an agreement with German colleagues regarding a three-year plan for the supply of modern IRIS-T air defense systems
This strategic agreement is one of the key steps in ensuring the country's defense capability in the near future and signifies the strengthening of Kyiv's cooperation with Berlin in the security sphere. According to the President, this program aims to provide Ukraine with a stable and systematic progress in bolstering its defensive potential. During the briefing held after a meeting with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Zelensky confirmed: "We are grateful for the delivery of IRIS-T air defense systems. Now we have a clear understanding of the plan for the next three years. Although I will not disclose all the details, this schedule is very important for our defense." He also emphasized that this three-year plan does not mean that the war will last longer — Kyiv's main goal is to ensure peace and security for Ukrainians through the stable supply of high-tech protective systems. Additionally, the president highlighted the prospects for localizing the production of German systems in Ukraine, which will not only strengthen the country's defense potential but also create new jobs and contribute to the development of Ukraine's military-industrial sector. "We aim to establish the production of high-quality air defense systems directly in Ukraine so that we can quickly react to any challenges," Zelensky said. It is worth noting that this agreement is a logical continuation of diplomatic and defense steps taken in May. At that time, Ukraine signed agreements with the German company Diehl Defence, which envisage not only the local production of IRIS-T systems in Ukraine but also the supply of missiles for them. This decision opens up prospects for Ukraine’s defense industry to reach a new level and attain independence in the production of modern defense systems. Thus, the agreements between Ukraine and Germany regarding the three-year IRIS-T system supply plan represent a significant step in strengthening the country's defense capabilities. It is not only a matter of military security but also an opportunity for Ukraine to gain new technological and economic advantages, fortify its defense infrastructure, and enhance its international image. In times of uncertainty and complex challenges to sovereignty and security, this strategic partnership step opens new horizons for Ukrainian defense and is an important element of its international support.