Belgium to purchase batch of Gepard air defense systems for Ukraine
Illustrative photo: Belgium will provide Ukraine with Flakpanzer Gepard systems (Getty Images)
Ukraine will receive 15 self-propelled anti-aircraft Gepard systems from Belgium to help protect its skies. The systems will be purchased from a private company, refurbished, and transferred to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, according to L'Echo.
Details of the Gepard delivery
According to the outlet, the Belgian government plans to purchase 15 anti-aircraft armored vehicles from OIP (a subsidiary of Elbit Systems).
These systems were previously in service with the Belgian army, but were phased out in the 2000s and later acquired by the private sector.
The purchase is part of a broader 1 billion euro military aid package for Ukraine approved in early April.
Before being sent to Kyiv, the armored vehicles will be refurbished at Belgian facilities. The value of the deal has not been disclosed.
Effectiveness of the systems
The Flakpanzer Gepard systems are equipped with two 35mm cannons and two radars.
Although the vehicles were developed back in the 1970s, they have demonstrated high effectiveness in the war against Russia.
In particular, they have been used successfully to intercept Russian kamikaze drones and cruise missiles at short range.
Aid for Ukraine and strengthening air defense
Ukraine is continuing to expand defense cooperation with its European partners. In particular, it was recently reported that Spain will provide Ukrainian border guards with 100 URO VAMTAC armored vehicles and 155mm artillery ammunition. The first deliveries are expected in early May.
In addition, Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov held talks with his Belgian and Spanish counterparts, during which they coordinated priorities for strengthening air defense ahead of the next Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting.
It was also reported that Ukraine and Spain are scaling up cooperation in drone production and the supply of long-range munitions for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
