USA and Germany’s Red Tape Delaying Weapons to Ukraine

Delays Plague Delivery of German MRAPs to Ukraine Amidst American and German Red Tape

Despite Germany’s pledge to send Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles to Ukraine since January, the delivery has experienced repeated postponements. German publication BILD reports that American red tape, including restrictive export permits, could be a contributing factor.

A German Defence Ministry source suggests that the permits may have hindered defense manufacturer Flensburger Fahrzeugbau GmbH (FFG) from accessing imported components needed to build the MRAPs.

Another potential reason for the delay lies in the lack of explosive-resistant capabilities certification for the MRAPs, a requirement for their export. Ukraine has repeatedly called for additional support as its weapons stocks dwindle. The Patriot air defense system, capable of targeting aircraft and missiles, is among the weapons Ukraine has requested.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has acknowledged that Patriot systems are available within the alliance, but countries are hesitant to relinquish them due to their own defense needs. Germany has provided three Patriots to Ukraine out of its initial 12, while Poland, with its proximity to Ukraine, retains its two Patriots for its own defense.

NATO monitors the weapons stockpiles of its member countries to ensure their preparedness to execute defense plans. However, Stoltenberg emphasizes that if providing Ukraine with the weapons it needs requires NATO allies to temporarily fall below the guideline levels, it is a risk they are willing to take.

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