Germany is boosting Ukraine's long-range capabilities through joint drone production

Germany is expanding its support for Ukraine, focusing on strengthening its ability to carry out long-range strategic strikes. 

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius made this announcement at a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the “Ramstein” format, according to RBC-Ukraine. He said this would be achieved by establishing a joint venture to develop and manufacture medium- and long-range drones.

In addition to technological cooperation, the German government is allocating €300 million specifically for the purchase of long-range drones manufactured directly in Ukraine. This step is part of a new defense concept aimed at enabling the Armed Forces of Ukraine to strike strategic targets behind enemy lines.

In parallel with the development of strike capabilities, Germany continues to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense. The minister confirmed that the IRIS-T air defense systems will be supplemented with new launchers. Pistorius emphasized that the success of Ukraine’s defensive struggle directly depends on sustained and systematic support from international partners.

These initiatives are being implemented against the backdrop of an officially recorded systemic recession in the Russian Federation, which began in April 2026. While the aggressor’s economy is being depleted, Ukraine, thanks to German-Ukrainian cooperation in the arms sector, is receiving the tools to shift the dynamics on the battlefield.

Within the framework of “Ramstein,” Germany and Ukraine have already signed 10 cooperation agreements at various levels. A new joint venture for drone production will be a key element in providing the Armed Forces of Ukraine with modern weapons systems that will allow them to maintain the initiative in the conflict. 

At Ramstein, a number of countries announced new contributions to the PURL program—Fedorov.

Ramstein in Berlinfocused on drones and long-range missiles for Ukraine.

The 34th Ramstein meeting on support for Ukraine has begun in Berlin.

Also, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hagset will again not participate in the meeting of the Ramstein Contact Group on Ukraine’s Defense, instead sending his deputy. 

Additionally, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will join the meeting of the Ramstein Contact Group on Ukraine’s Defense.