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Ukrainian Defense Industry Advances With KNDS in Gepard Air Defense System Repairs
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Ukraine’s defense industry, working in cooperation with European partners, has mastered the repair of Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems.
Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the achievement during a meeting with a delegation from KNDS Deutschland on August 21, led by Chief Executive Officer Ralf Ketzel.
KNDS is a leading arms manufacturer whose systems have already proven effective on the battlefield. The talks with the Ukrainian side focused on deepening industrial cooperation in the defense sector.
According to the Ministry of Defense, work is underway to establish repair and service hubs in Ukraine to accelerate the restoration and maintenance of weapons supplied by partners. The plan also envisions developing a broader network of centers for repairing heavy equipment on Ukrainian soil.
As part of this cooperation, the first three Gepard systems have already undergone full repairs.
Today, the Gepard is one of the most important anti-aircraft gun platforms in Ukraine’s air defense architecture. The system plays a decisive role in protecting cities and strategic sites from Russian Shahed drones as well as cruise missiles launched from Russian territory and occupied regions. According to Militarnyi on August 21, its twin 35mm cannons, combined with a high rate of fire and integrated radar systems, make the Gepard particularly effective against small, low-flying targets.
The Gepard is also proving vital on the frontline. Its mobility and autonomous operation enable it to move alongside Ukrainian units, providing cover against Russian tactical aviation, combat helicopters, and reconnaissance drones.
KNDS Deutschland, for its part, expressed strong interest in the practical combat experience of Ukrainian defenders in operating their weapons.
During the meeting, representatives of KNDS and Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense agreed to establish a communication mechanism that would allow the company to adapt and refine its products in line with lessons learned from modern warfare.
Earlier, German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall unveiled plans to double the production capacity of 155mm artillery shells at its plant in Ukraine, which is currently under construction. The initiative is intended to strengthen Ukraine’s defense self-sufficiency and gradually reduce reliance on ammunition supplies from Western partners.
