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Rheinmetall Backtracks After CEO Dismisses Ukraine’s Drone Industry as “Kitchen-Built”
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall has issued a public statement expressing respect for Ukraine following criticism of comments made by its CEO Armin Papperger about Ukrainian drone production.
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Rheinmetall said it “deeply respects the enormous efforts of the Ukrainian people in self-defense against Russian aggression” and highlighted Ukraine’s ability to sustain effective defense operations despite limited resources.
The company added that “the innovative strength and fighting spirit of the Ukrainian people are a source of inspiration” and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to support Ukraine with available resources.
We have the utmost respect for the Ukrainian people’s immense efforts in defending themselves against the Russian attack - now for more than four years. Every single woman and man in 🇺🇦 is making an immeasurable contribution. It is to Ukraine’s particular credit that it is…
— Rheinmetall (@RheinmetallAG) March 29, 2026
The statement followed remarks made by Papperger in an interview with The Atlantic, where he questioned the level of technological innovation in Ukraine’s drone sector. Papperger compared Ukrainian drone development to “playing with Lego” and said, “This is not the technology of Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics or Rheinmetall.”
When discussing Ukrainian drone manufacturers, including companies such as Fire Point and Skyfall, Papperger added: “These are Ukrainian housewives. They have 3D printers in their kitchens and produce parts for drones. This is not innovation.”
The comments triggered criticism, prompting Rheinmetall to clarify its position and emphasize its respect for Ukraine’s defense efforts. In its follow-up message, the company reiterated that Ukrainian forces have demonstrated “high efficiency in warfare even under constrained resources.”
Earlier, Papperger said that funding—not industrial capacity—remains the main constraint on military aid to Ukraine, noting that significantly more ammunition, air defense systems, and armored vehicles could be delivered if financing were secured.
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