Ramstein Talks to Address Local Production of Western Air Defense Missiles in Ukraine

The latest meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, held in Brussels today, included a key discussion on the possibility of launching domestic production of Western air defence missiles on Ukrainian soil. The initiative, which came at the request of the Ukrainian government, is being considered by nations that produce advanced missile systems and support Ukraine through this international forum.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed that the group would address Ukraine’s appeal to begin licensed missile production locally. He did not specify which air defence systems were included in the talks, but Germany is known for producing the IRIS-T SLS and SLM systems, which are already being used by Ukrainian forces to defend cities and critical infrastructure.

In March, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence signed a memorandum of understanding with German arms manufacturer Diehl Defence, which produces the IRIS-T system. The agreement includes tripling missile and system deliveries and expanding cooperation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyi recently urged his defence and foreign ministers to intensify collaboration with international partners to secure air defence solutions under the Ramstein framework. He stressed the importance of boosting production across Europe and the United States but also made it clear that Ukraine is prepared to host manufacturing facilities—pending political approval from allies.

Last year, Ukraine also requested a production license from the United States for the Patriot air defence system. Zelenskyi said that while no one had explicitly refused the request, no approval had been granted either. The urgency behind this request stems from persistent delays in the delivery of missile defence systems from allies, even as Russian missile attacks continue to target civilian and energy infrastructure.

Pete Hagseth, the new U.S. Secretary of Defence, is expected to participate in today’s discussions remotely. This marks a shift from earlier reports that no American representatives would attend the meeting.

Ukraine’s ability to build and deliver air defence missiles locally would significantly reduce delays, enhance self-sufficiency, and provide more reliable protection for its citizens in the face of continued Russian aggression.