Germany has practically exhausted its stock of air defense missiles that it could still deliver to Ukraine, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said in an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio, cited by Mandiner. The politician justified the delay in the delivery of the critical munitions by saying that Germany simply no longer has such tools.
He added that the Patriot missiles still available are American-made, and what comes off the production lines will be sent to Ukraine almost immediately, largely with European – mainly German – funding.
The minister said that other European countries “could do more” as several states have air defense systems. He also recalled that German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius had previously called on partners to review their own stockpiles. Wadephul stressed that Ukraine is not only defending itself, but also the freedom of Europe, so greater solidarity and independence are needed in the defense and economic spheres.
“Let’s review the old stocks again to see what else we can do, and if there is nothing left in the stocks that can be given to Ukraine, then let’s give money!” Pistorius reportedly said at a press conference.
Pistorius also spoke in Brussels about the desire to strengthen conventional defense and deterrence forces within NATO’s European members.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced new military aid packages in mid-February, including air defense missiles. However, a munitions factory in the United Kingdom, which was supposed to begin production in the summer of 2025, is being delayed. According to BAE Systems, the delay was due to a decision made during construction to double the factory’s capacity.
For its part, Germany is planning to purchase a large batch of cheap drones together with other NATO member states. According to information from NATO sources, as cited by Mandiner, the drones must have a range of at least 500 kilometers. In a military defense situation, their purpose is to overwhelm enemy air defenses. The Russian army is currently using similar tactics with its Shahid drones in Ukraine. In addition to Germany, France, Great Britain, Poland and Sweden also intend to participate in the procurement through the so-called Elsa (European Long-Range Impact Measurement Approach) project.
Mandiner also drew attention to an article written for Welt and the Guardian by Sir Richard Knighton, the U.K.’s Chief of Defence Staff, and General Carsten Breuer, the German Army Chief of Staff, stating that Europe must prepare for a possible war.
“Our security is more uncertain than at any time in decades. But if we work together and show strength, Britain, Germany and the rest of Europe can keep the peace,” they wrote. According to the authors, “This is a reality we must prepare for; we cannot sit back. Moscow’s military developments, coupled with its willingness to wage war on our continent, pose an increased risk that demands our collective attention.”
