Germany Funds Production of 500+ Long-Range Drones for Ukraine

Germany has signed its first contract to finance the production of over 500 Antonov-196 (AN-196) long-range kamikaze drones for Ukraine, capable of carrying 50 kilograms of explosives over distances up to 1,200 kilometers. These drones are expected to be operational in the coming months and have likely been used by Ukraine in recent strikes on Russian rear targets. The German Defence Ministry confirmed funding for long-range weapons production in Ukraine but withheld specific details for security reasons. German officials, including Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, have emphasized strengthening military cooperation and establishing joint ventures to boost Ukraine's defense manufacturing capabilities. Germany is also supporting Ukraine's access to satellite internet services managed by Eutelsat as an alternative to Starlink. This funding represents a significant step in Germany's military aid to Ukraine, with the potential for the German Armed Forces to also benefit from these weapons systems in the future.