Germany is Ukraine’s largest partner in the provision of air defense.
Germany will soon transfer new IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine. The new German Ambassador to Ukraine, Gaiko Thoms, said this in an interview with Suspilny.
“We have actually already transferred nine IRIS-T systems, as far as I know, and more new IRIS-T systems are expected to be delivered in the near future,” the ambassador said.
According to him, Germany is currently Ukraine’s largest partner in the provision of air defense, although he understands that this assistance is still not enough.
Toms also recalled that at the end of 2025, Germany transferred two additional Patriot complexes to Ukraine.
“I know that this is still not enough. As I said, I also live here and understand what the situation is, I know the realities. But we are doing everything we can and making every effort to support Ukraine – both through direct assistance to the energy sector and through the provision of air defense assets,” the ambassador said.
German air defense systems in Ukraine
As UNIAN reported, Ukraine ordered 18 modern IRIS-T air defense systems from the German company Diehl Defense to strengthen the protection of its front lines.
Company CEO Helmut Rauch said that such an order aims to improve the protection of critical infrastructure and areas located near the front.
IRIS-T is one of the most modern fixed air defense systems in Europe. According to Diehl Defense, Ukraine uses them to intercept Russian cruise missiles and drones, including Iranian Shaheds.
