Missile breakthrough: Germany invests in long-range weapons for Ukraine
29 May 21:59
During the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Berlin on May 28, 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a new large-scale military aid package. Part of this program is to finance the development and launch of production of Ukrainian cruise missiles with a range of up to 2,500 km, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports, citing the Financial Times.
This decision immediately attracted the attention of international observers and analysts, and also provoked the expected aggressive reaction from Russia.
What exactly is planned
As part of the €5 billion package, part of the funds will go directly to support the Ukrainian defense industry. The goal is to create its own production of cruise missiles capable of hitting targets on enemy territory in the deep rear. The technical range of up to 2,500 kilometers puts these missiles on par with the longest-range non-nuclear systems in the world.
The first products are expected to roll off the assembly line in 2026. Production will be fully localized in Ukraine, but with the involvement of German technological components. Thus, Kyiv will receive not only military support but also technological transfer, which will allow it to reach a new level of defense industry development.
Why does Germany need this?
The German government is seeking to change its approach to security policy after years of accusations of excessive caution. Supporting Ukraine is not only about helping an ally, but also about stabilizing the eastern flank of Europe. Germany wants to avoid repeating strategic mistakes and prove that it is ready to be not only an economic giant but also a geopolitical player.
Funding for Ukrainian long-range systems looks like a signal to both allies and adversaries that Berlin is ready to move away from cautious pacifism and participate in the formation of a new European security architecture.
What does this mean for Ukraine?
For Kyiv, this is a strategic breakthrough. With its own high-precision long-range missiles, Ukraine will have an asymmetric advantage that could change the balance of power at the front. This is especially true given the West’s restrictions on the use of transferred weapons on Russian territory. Ukraine’s own missiles are free of such political conventions.
In addition, the creation of such a production facility means new jobs, taxes, technology imports, development of the domestic research base, and subsequently the potential for exports.
What are the risks?
Predictably, Russia has already called Germany’s intentions “provocative” and promised “appropriate measures.” The Kremlin perceives the appearance of long-range Ukrainian weapons on the border as a new stage in the conflict. This means an increased risk of attacks on defense industry facilities, including outside the combat zone.
Another risk is a possible escalation of tensions between Germany and other EU countries that are more cautious about military assistance to Ukraine. Part of the political spectrum in Europe may use this decision to put pressure on Merz and rethink approaches to arms supplies.
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