The German government has reported a significant increase in defense exports, approving a historic sum of 12.8 billion euros (approximately $14.9 billion) in weapons sales last year. This surge is largely attributed to Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts. According to a cabinet-approved report, 8.15 billion euros (around $9.5 billion) worth of military equipment was allocated to Ukraine, accounting for 64% of the total arms exports.
Additionally, the actual delivery of military goods in 2024 has also reached new heights, totaling 13.37 billion euros (about $15.6 billion). The report indicates that around 86% of approved exports were directed towards European Union and NATO member states, as well as partner nations, including Ukraine, Singapore, and South Korea.
The types of military hardware being exported include tracked and wheeled military vehicles, along with substantial orders for bombs, torpedoes, missile systems, and warships. However, the government did not approve 62 applications from various countries, notably Pakistan, Thailand, and Malaysia.
Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, revealing plans to allocate 9 billion euros (approximately $10.5 billion) for assistance to Kyiv in the upcoming years, specifically through 2026. During a recent visit to Ukraine, Klingbeil remarked, “As long as this war continues, we will stand by Ukraine’s side, because it is also about our freedom and our security.”
In 2023, Ukraine was once again the top recipient of German arms exports, with Germany approving a total of 12.1 billion euros ($14.1 billion) in military sales during that period. This ongoing military support underscores Germany’s pivotal role as one of Ukraine’s largest backers, trailing only the United States.
