Evgeniy Khmara and Boris Pistorius discuss strengthening air defense and joint drone production

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Evgeniy Khmara held a phone conversation with German Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius.

The parties discussed countering jet-powered drones and ballistic threats, strengthening air defence, and developing industrial cooperation.

With Germany’s support, Ukraine can already shoot down jet-powered drones more effectively.

Evgeniy Khmara thanked Germany for its critically important support. Timely deliveries of munitions for F-16 aircraft, which have already proved highly effective against russian drones, are particularly important.

"With our partners’ support, we are also developing solutions, including electronic warfare systems, to protect our cities. We are assessing their effectiveness against jet-powered Shahed drones and scaling up what works," stressed the Minister of Defence Evgeniy Khmara.

The ministers also discussed the threat of russian ballistic strikes. Ukraine is developing asymmetric responses and striking russian launchers. Strikes on such targets have already produced results.

Strengthening air defence

The parties also discussed key requirements for protecting critical infrastructure, including in Kyiv.

It remains important to increase deliveries of air defence assets, including interceptors for IRIS-T systems.

Industrial cooperation

The conversation also focused on industrial cooperation and joint UAV production, as well as on sharing Ukraine’s combat experience to help strengthen Germany’s security.

Evgeniy Khmara thanked Germany for its timely, consistent support and its flexibility in finding solutions to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities.