Rheinmetall Secures Major Contract to Supply Ukraine with 35mm Gepard Ammunition
In a significant boost to Ukraine's air defense capabilities, German defense giant Rheinmetall has confirmed a new contract with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence for the supply of 180,000 rounds of 35mm HEI-T (High-Explosive Incendiary-Tracer) ammunition. The contract, announced in December 2024, is valued in the high double-digit million euro range and is financed by the German government. This development underscores Germany's continued commitment to supporting Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict.
Specifications of the 35mm HEI-T Ammunition
The 35mm HEI-T rounds are specifically engineered for the Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems. These shells are equipped with a high-explosive incendiary component designed to neutralize a variety of airborne threats, including drones, low-flying aircraft, and cruise missiles. The tracer functionality ensures precision targeting, enhancing accuracy during rapid engagements. The ammunition is compatible with the Oerlikon KDA 35mm dual cannon, the primary weapon system of the Gepard.
Each round is designed for maximum effectiveness, combining high-velocity performance with a robust impact mechanism. The advanced design enables the Gepard to maintain its reputation as a reliable and lethal air defense platform, particularly in urban and battlefield environments where drone warfare has become a predominant threat.
Rheinmetall's Expanded Production Capabilities
Rheinmetall has invested significantly in its manufacturing infrastructure to meet increased demand for 35mm ammunition. The production will occur at the company's Unterlüß facility, which was revamped in early 2023 to include a dedicated production line for this specific ammunition type. This proactive approach has allowed Rheinmetall to rapidly scale up production while maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Gepard: A Proven Asset in Ukraine's Defense
The Gepard anti-aircraft tank, originally developed in the 1970s, has seen a resurgence in operational importance amid the Ukraine conflict. Germany has supplied Ukraine with 55 decommissioned Gepard units, which have been repurposed for modern warfare. These systems have become a cornerstone of Ukraine's air defense strategy, effectively countering drone swarms and other aerial threats over the past two years.
The Gepard system is equipped with two 35mm cannons capable of firing 1,100 rounds per minute and features advanced radar systems for target acquisition and tracking. Its mobility and firepower make it well-suited for protecting critical infrastructure and frontline positions.
Rheinmetall's Broader Contributions to Ukraine
Beyond supplying Gepard ammunition, Rheinmetall has delivered other state-of-the-art air defense solutions to Ukraine. Notably, the company has provided its Skynex air defense system, which employs AHEAD (Advanced Hit Efficiency And Destruction) programmable airburst ammunition. This technology is particularly effective against drones, delivering a burst of metal fragments to neutralize multiple targets in a single strike.
Rheinmetall's portfolio extends beyond ammunition and weaponry. The company also supplies fire control systems, missile launchers, radar technologies, and air surveillance equipment, reinforcing its status as a global leader in air defense solutions. This latest contract not only highlights Rheinmetall’s pivotal role in supporting Ukraine's military but also underscores its adaptability and innovation in addressing the evolving nature of modern warfare.
Germany's Role in Strengthening Ukraine's Defense
The German government’s funding of this ammunition contract reflects its broader commitment to Ukraine's defense needs. The Gepard systems, along with the ammunition and advanced air defense technologies from Rheinmetall, have proven instrumental in bolstering Ukraine's capacity to defend its airspace amid escalating threats.
As drone warfare and aerial incursions become increasingly prevalent in modern conflicts, the timely delivery of high-quality ammunition and defense systems is critical. Rheinmetall's latest contract ensures that Ukraine remains equipped to meet these challenges head-on, further solidifying the partnership between Germany and Ukraine in the realm of defense.
This development represents a critical milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Rheinmetall, the German government, and Ukraine, showcasing the vital role of cutting-edge technology and international cooperation in contemporary conflict scenarios.
