Germany sends drones, Marder combat vehicles to Ukraine as part of new military package

Germany has completed the delivery of a new military package to Ukraine, involving military drones and combat vehicles, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

According to a document published on the government's website, German authorities have recently handed over to Ukraine 20 reconnaissance drones, 20 Marder combat vehicles, two mine-clearing tanks, and three ambulances.

The military aid package also included surveillance and drone detection systems, 3,000 artillery rounds, and 1.5 million rounds of ammunition for firearms.

Berlin increased its military support to Ukraine following pressure from the US and other allies, and it is currently the second-largest supplier of weapons to the country.

Since the war began in Feb. 2022, Germany provided €22 billion ($24 billion) in financial support to Ukraine, including €12 billion ($13 billion) in military aid.

The military assistance included advanced weapons and equipment such as Leopard 2 battle tanks, Gepard anti-aircraft tanks, Marder combat vehicles, and Patriot and IRIS-T air defense systems.