Germany completes training of the fourth group of Ukrainian Patriot air defense system operators

The fourth training exercise of the Ukrainian military in using the Patriot air defense system has been completed in Germany.

The German Luftwaffe’s press service reported this on social media on Tuesday, November 5.

These air defense systems are being transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force as part of military assistance from Western countries, including Germany.

After completing training in Germany, the Ukrainian military will be able to operate the Patriot SAM independently, using it to shoot down Russian air assets: planes, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters.

However, the German side does not disclose how many Ukrainian soldiers have undergone the relevant training for security reasons.

The German Air Force announced the start of training of the fourth group of Ukrainians in Germany on the Patriot air defense system in the second half of August this year.

Patriot from Germany

Ukraine received the first Patriot system from Germany last April. The transfer took place immediately after the completion of training for Ukrainian operators, who started mastering the system in early February.

Also, in August 2023, Germany transferred 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 stated that the system had already been at the disposal of the Ukrainian military.

In October, Ukraine and Germany signed an agreement to immediately strengthen air defense at the expense of the partner countries.

In addition to Germany, Belgium, Norway, the Netherlands, and Denmark will also join this initiative to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense.