Training of a new group of Ukrainian operators of the Patriot air defense system begins in Germany
24 August, 2024 Illustrative photo of the German Patriot PAC-2 SAM. Photo from open sources The fourth training mission of the Ukrainian military to work with the Patriot air defense system has begun in Germany.
The press service of the German Air Forces reported about this on Saturday, August 24. These air defense systems (SAMs) are being transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force as part of military assistance from Western countries, including Germany. Upon completion of the training in Germany, the Ukrainian military will be able to operate the Patriot air defense system independently, using it to shoot down Russian planes, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters.
Training of Ukrainians in Germany on the Patriot air defense system.
August 2024. Photo credits: German Air Force
The German side does not disclose how many Ukrainian soldiers are undergoing the relevant training and how long it will take to prepare them. However, previous reports from the Bundeswehr indicate that this process takes more than six weeks.
An illustration on the topic of Ukrainians training in Germany on the Patriot system.
August 2024. Photo credits: German Air Force
Ukraine received the first Patriot system from Germany in April last year.
The Ukrainian servicemen master the Patriot air defense system in Germany. February 2023.
Photo credits: Federal Ministry of Defence
The transfer took place immediately after the completion of training for Ukrainian operators, who began mastering the system in early February. Also in August 2023, Germany handed over two additional Patriot launchers and anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine for this air defense system. At the end of last year, Ukraine received a second Patriot system from Germany as part of military aid.
The German government announced the transfer of another Patriot air defense system to Ukraine in April 2024. In early July, the German ambassador to Ukraine said that the system had already been at the disposal of the Ukrainian military. Prior to that, the Ukrainian crew of this air defense system was successfully trained in Germany.
Launch of the MIM-104F MSE anti-aircraft missile from the Patriot air defense system.
Photo credits: Lockheed Martin
In August, the U.S.
Department of State approved the possible sale of 600 MIM-104F anti-aircraft guided missiles to Germany for the Patriot system.