Ukraine and Gulf states get special weapons privileges from Germany

From now on, Ukraine and six Gulf states will be able to receive German weapons without enduring exhausting waiting periods for each application.

This decision, made by Olaf Scholz's government, effectively removes the main bottleneck in German arms exports — bureaucracy. Previously, German defense companies such as Rheinmetall or Diehl Defence had to obtain individual approval for every single component of an air defense system, which delayed critical deliveries for months.

What does a "general license" mean?

The new temporary mechanism, which will be in effect until September 15, 2026, introduces a general export license. This means:

• Speed: Manufacturers will be able to sign contracts and ship equipment almost immediately.
• Predictability: Germany’s partners can plan their defense without fearing a sudden veto on another batch of spare parts.
• Priority for air defense: The simplification applies primarily to air defense systems and naval security equipment.

Geopolitical alliance: Ukraine alongside the sheikhdoms

The list of countries covered by this privileged regime includes:

• Ukraine (as a key ally in Europe).
• Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

This choice of countries is no coincidence. Berlin explains that it will allow for a faster response to common threats — above all, drone attacks and missile terror, which are faced by both Ukrainian cities and strategic facilities in the Gulf region.

Control under the new standards

Germany is not abandoning oversight but is making it more effective. All deliveries will continue to strictly comply with EU law, but the focus shifts from bureaucratic red tape to tangible results — the security of partners.

This move is expected to allow Ukraine to significantly accelerate the deployment of IRIS-T systems and related equipment, which is critically important amid ongoing aerial attacks.