Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine has signed a contract with Germany for the purchase of 600 air defense missiles for the Patriot system.

In an interview with the Ukrainian television channel 1+1, Zelensky said the deal leverages Germany’s newly established production capacity for Patriot missiles.

“The current production capacity in the United States is no more than about 700 missiles per year. They transferred licenses for the production of Patriot missiles to the Germans, and Germany began manufacturing them some time ago. We have already signed a contract with them for a substantial amount covering 600 missiles,” Zelensky stated.

The Ukrainian leader also revealed progress in talks with the United States regarding domestic production. During his recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Zelensky received a positive response on the possible transfer of a missile production license to Ukraine.

“For the first time, the American team responded positively to the issue of a license. For the first time. Previously, it was always, ‘Well, we don’t know, maybe, we’ll see.’ What did they say this time? They said they could see a way to resolve this issue for Ukraine,” he said.

Germany is currently developing an independent production line for Patriot missiles, with the first deliveries expected in 2026 or early 2027. The contract with Ukraine is expected to utilize this European production capacity to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses amid the ongoing war with Russia.

The announcement highlights Kyiv’s efforts to secure long-term air defense capabilities through both direct purchases and potential localized manufacturing. (ILKHA)