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Germany refuses to send Taurus missiles but funds hundreds of Ukrainian-made long-range strike systems
Germany will not transfer its Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine. However, instead, Berlin will finance the production of hundreds of similar systems capable of striking deep behind Russian lines, ZDF reports.
Taurus missiles were vital for Ukraine due to their ability to deliver high-precision strikes at long ranges, over 500 km, against strategic targets deep behind Russian lines, such as airfields, ports, depots, command centers, and logistical hubs. This would allow Ukraine to disrupt Russian military supply chains and command structures by destroying key infrastructure.
The first of these weapons is expected to be delivered by the end of July, as part of a new defense initiative launched in May. Production is projected to reach “high triple digits,” says Major General Christian Freuding, head of the Ukraine support staff at Germany’s Ministry of Defense.
The initiative is based on a contract between the Ukrainian industry and Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, with funding from Berlin. The program is expected to significantly enhance Ukraine’s air defense and missile capabilities in the coming months, according to UkrInform.
The new weapon systems will be capable of penetrating deep into Russian territory, able to strike supply depots, command centers, airfields, and aircraft.
Additionally, Germany is involved in talks with the US on acquiring more Patriot systems for Ukraine. This topic will be discussed during German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius’s upcoming visit to Washington in July.
According to German representatives of Ukraine’s support team, the frontline situation remains extremely tense. Russian forces hold the initiative and are making slow but steady advances, inflicting casualties as Ukrainian troops focus on defensive operations.
Despite an escalation in the skies, Ukraine’s air defenses remain effective, intercepting around 80% of aerial targets. However, further air defense reinforcement is necessary to stabilize the front and protect cities.
Germany is working with partners to supply Ukraine with medium- and long-range air defense systems and is also helping develop new anti-drone technologies.
