Former Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger and Deputy Defence Minister Dmytro Klimenkov: TSN.
According to the TimeUkraineIsrael news portal, the defence concern Rheinmetall is actively expanding its presence in Ukraine. The company’s CEO, Armin Papperger, shared details of Rheinmetall’s plans, including the opening of new plants, in an exclusive interview with TSN.
The first plant is already in operation
Papperger noted that the company’s first plant is already operating in Ukraine, and the second is in the process of preparation. These enterprises will form the basis for further development of the country’s defence industry. By the end of the year, the company plans to introduce a new Lynx infantry fighting vehicle that meets the latest standards.
Partnership with the Ukrainian defence industry
“We have a lot of good plans. The Ukrainian defence industry is our key partner. We currently have a production facility and a vehicle maintenance facility. We already service not only infantry fighting vehicles but also main battle tanks,” said Papperger.
The company owns 51% of the shares in this enterprise, which demonstrates its seriousness in investing in the Ukrainian defence sector.
New production facilities: gunpowder and ammunition
Rheinmetall’s plans include the construction of a powder plant and an ammunition plant. “We want to set up the production of air defence systems so that the Ukrainian military can defend their country on their own,” said the group’s director.
Training programme
Papperger also stressed the importance of training local staff. “We are implementing a strong training programme to teach people the skills they need. Although there are sometimes bureaucratic obstacles, we are generally moving forward,” he added.
Development prospects
Regarding the construction of four new plants ordered by Ukraine from Rheinmetall, the company’s CEO said that things are going well. The first plant is already ready, the second is on the way, and Papperger insists on speeding up all processes: “We have no time to lose, we cannot waste it.”
Innovative technologies
The capacity of the new plants is expected to be at the highest level. “Production line No. 1 will be focused on tanks. The powder and ammunition production systems will meet NATO standards, which are currently not available in Ukraine. These will be truly outstanding technologies,” summed up Papperger.
