Ukrainian soldiers arrive in Germany for training on Patriot air defense system
Ukrainian defenders arrived in Germany to learn how to operate the Patriot anti-aircraft missile complex, as the DPA agency learned from sources in security circles.
It is reported that the Ukrainian group landed on Tuesday and should start training this Thursday. This is a group of about 70 Ukrainians, DPA emphasized.
In consultations with the United States, the federal government wants Ukraine to have an entire Patriot system to repel russian attacks.
Typically, the system includes a fire control center, radar, power generator, and six or more launchers.
In January, the Ukrainian military arrived in the US to be also trained on the Patriot missiles. The training program will take place at the Fort Sill base in Oklahoma, where the US conducts its training in the operation and maintenance of an advanced air defense system.
Fort Sill is one of four US Army base training centers and home to the Field Artillery School, which has trained soldiers for over a century.
Training Ukrainians in the complex system is expected to take "several months," said Laura Cooper, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russian, Ukrainian, and Eurasian affairs.
Washington announced the transfer of the first Patriot system to Ukraine on December 21 as part of another military aid package.
After that, Germany also promised to provide Patriot to Ukraine. The Netherlands will also supply Ukraine with Patriot air defense systems and missiles.
