Germany will send Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine and is preparing for a potential conflict with Russia in 2029.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated after talks with Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth that Germany and the US will decide within days or weeks on sending two Patriot systems to Ukraine. Once the agreement is signed, the first Patriot system could be deployed to Ukraine within a few months.

Additionally, Germany might send missiles for its Patriot systems to Ukraine, as it recently established its own production line for these missiles. The first deliveries are anticipated in 2026-2027. Christian Freuding, Director of the Joint Planning and Command Staff at the German Defense Ministry, explained that this is an independent production line, meaning Berlin could supply missiles to Kyiv without the US’ consent.

Meanwhile, the country is preparing for a possible Russian attack in 2029. Last year, the Bundeswehr signed around 12,000 contracts and spent over €31B on weapons purchases, twice as much as in 2021, according to Annette Lönig-Emden, head of the Federal Office for the Equipment of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw). The focus of these purchases is on air defense and ammunition.