Rheinmetall, Germany’s largest defense conglomerate, is now actively pursuing partnerships with Ukrainian manufacturers of long-range missile systems, a shift occurring roughly three months after its CEO, Armin Papperger, levied harsh criticism against the country’s drone industry. Papperger had previously dismissed Ukrainian drones as “Lego-drones,” a statement that drew significant rebuke from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
However, Papperger has since indicated to the Handelsblatt that the Ukrainian defense industry is highly dynamic, noting that local companies have swiftly developed strong capabilities in the rocket sector. He confirmed that Rheinmetall has been in ongoing discussions with various Ukrainian arms producers and remains open to cooperation under the right conditions.
This renewed interest comes as European governments and defense contractors seek alternatives to long-range firepower, especially since the US government canceled plans to station Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany. European companies are increasingly looking for cooperation possibilities, and Ukrainian firms have begun showcasing alternatives, such as Fire Point’s “Flamingo” missile at the Eurosatory defense fair in Paris.
According to Serhiy Pashinskyi, head of the Ukrainian arms association Naudi, a deeper collaborative bond would benefit both nations, with several “Deep Strike” projects currently underway. Similarly, Vladyslav Belbas, chairman of Ukrainian Armor-the largest private Ukrainian defense consortium-believes that the Ukrainian-European alternative to the Tomahawk could be operationally ready next year. Belbas told the Handelsblatt that the only remaining elements needed were funding and political resolve, both of which he insists are now in place.
