Production of Lynx IFVs and Repair of Gepards and Leopard Tanks: Ukraine Signs Defense Industry Cooperation Agreement with Germany

Ukraine has signed an agreement with Germany to deepen cooperation in the defense industry.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced this.

On behalf of Germany, Federal Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius signed the agreement.

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine noted that the signed agreement creates a foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation in the fields of the defense industry, technology, and innovation.

It will facilitate the development of joint industrial projects to produce Lynx infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and ammunition in Ukraine.

Additionally, the agreement stipulates the repair of Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems and Leopard main battle tanks.

The agreement will promote innovation in the defense industry, joint research and development (R&D), modernization, and technical support for production.

The agreement also covers procurement and the exchange of technical information and expertise, as well as joint participation in training programs and exercises.

Lynx IFVs for Ukraine

The story of the Lynx infantry fighting vehicles for the Ukrainian Defense Forces dates back to 2023.

Back in early December, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger announced that the German defense group planned to launch production of its armored vehicles in Ukraine in 2024. The plant was expected to produce, among other things, the latest tracked infantry fighting vehicles.

He explained that, following the signing of the relevant contract, the first Lynx IFVs could roll off the assembly line in Ukraine within 12 to 13 months. Production at the Ukrainian facility could have been launched in the summer of 2025.

Earlier this year, it was reported that the first vehicle had been delivered to the Ukrainian military for testing. As of July, the IFV was still undergoing trials far from the front line.