In a major move to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities at home, German armaments maker Rheinmetall has formally opened its first weapons production plant in Ukraine.

According to Agerpres and EFE, Armin Papperger, the CEO of Operational Rheinmetall, acknowledged the launch in an interview with the Ukrainian news outlet TSN. By the end of the year, the facility is anticipated to begin producing Lynx armoured combat vehicles, according to Digi24, but Papperger says it is now focused on repairing infantry fighting vehicles and battle tanks.

We have a lot of ambitious goals. “The first factory is already operational,” Papperger said, adding that the facility’s primary goal is to provide repair services for Ukrainian military equipment. The inclusion of Lynx car production, however, signifies a significant move towards domestic manufacture.

With its cutting-edge mobility and modular design, the Lynx will be the first state-of-the-art infantry vehicle manufactured in Ukraine, enhancing Ukraine’s capacity to provide armoured vehicles to its armed forces.

Russian Troops Attack North Korean Troops, Saying “He Was Just Standing There”

Boost Your Self-Sufficiency
Papperger called the joint partnership between Rheinmetall and Ukraine, of which this factory launch is a part, “very profitable.” With a 51 percent controlling stake, Rheinmetall has main authority under this structure while cooperating with Ukrainian interests.

The goal of this partnership is to increase Ukraine’s ability to produce its own weapons while it continues to repel Russian aggression.

Beyond this first facility, Rheinmetall is working on further projects in Ukraine, such as building a second ammunition factory and a gunpowder production plant. Rheinmetall’s dedication to building a more robust supply chain for Ukraine’s military is demonstrated by these initiatives.

Papperger went on to emphasise the wide-ranging nature of Rheinmetall’s approach in Ukraine by saying, “Our third objective is to establish air defence system production to ensure that Ukraine can defend itself.”