The head of the largest German arms concern Rheinmetall, Armin Papperger, said that the concern is holding “promising” negotiations with the Ukrainian authorities on the construction of a tank plant in the country. It is reported by RBC with reference to the Rheinische Post.
It is reported that the construction of the plant will cost about 200 million euros, its planned capacity is up to 400 Panther-type main battle tanks per year, a decision can be made as early as the next two months. According to Papperger, production can be reliably protected from attacks by Russian troops with air defense systems.
Ukraine needs between 600 and 800 tanks to win, he continued, and even if Germany hands over all of its 300 Leopard 2 tanks the Bundeswehr has, it still won’t be enough.
“Western allies are sending enough weapons there so that Ukraine can defend itself, but the Ukrainians today do not have enough equipment to completely retake their territory,” the head of Rheinmetall added, noting that the conflict would last “probably years.”
The value of Rheinmetall’s shares has doubled since the start of the Russian military operation in Ukraine, now the company’s market value exceeds 10.8 billion, according to BR24. A spokesman for the company said that the fighting has spurred demand, which is why the company is waiting for “years of strong growth.”
Rheinmetall produces Leopard and Panther KF51 tanks, Lynx, Marder and Puma infantry fighting vehicles, the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, as well as other military equipment, weapons and ammunition.
Source: Rosbalt
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