Germany delivers two IRIS-T anti-air systems to Ukraine

Germany has delivered two IRIS-T anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine last week, according to Major General Christian Freuding, who leads the Ukraine special task force in the German Defense Ministry. In an interview with RND published on 9 October, he discussed the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war and Germany’s continued support for Kyiv.

These deliveries come as Ukraine continues to seek enhanced air defense capabilities in response to intensifying Russian strikes targeting energy infrastructure.

Earlier, Germany ordered an additional 17 IRIS-T air defense systems for Ukraine, as announced by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on 4 September, in addition to the seven systems already delivered. By 2026, Ukraine is expected to receive a total of 24 IRIS-T systems from Germany, including 12 medium-range and 12 short-range versions.

In the RND interview, Freuding stated,

“We deliver at a high level, and we will maintain this high level. Last week alone, we delivered two Iris-T SLM and SLS air defence systems. And we will deliver two more air defence systems, a mid-double-digit number of infantry fighting vehicles and battle tanks and a five- to six-digit number of artillery ammunition before the end of the year. That really is substantial.”

When asked if Germany’s support remains substantial despite recent electoral successes of “pro-Putin parties AfD and BSW,” the Major General emphasized that the German government remains united in its support for Ukraine.

“The federal government continues to stand united behind support for Ukraine,” Freuding affirmed.

Discussing the military situation in Ukraine, Freuding noted that the focus of Russian attacks remains on the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, where Russians are making small daily advances at enormous costs. He expressed concern over the loss of Vuhledar and the increased pressure on Pokrovsk, which he described as “enormously important” for Ukraine due to its role as a logistical hub and its proximity to crucial coal mines.

Freuding also highlighted Ukraine’s progress in recruitment efforts, citing a significant increase in recruitment numbers since spring, reaching five digits. He noted improvements in artillery ammunition availability, with the Russian artillery superiority reduced from 8:1 to approximately 3:1.

The Major General praised Ukraine’s achievements in the Black Sea, where it has managed to push back the Russian Black Sea Fleet behind Sevastopol without having its own navy.

When asked about the authorization for Ukraine to use Western weapons in air strikes on Russian territory, Maj-Gen Freuding responded, “You have to ask in other capitals.”

Clarifying whether this was because Germany has not supplied weapons like the Taurus cruise missile, he replied, “Yes, this question does not arise for us.”

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