In a major development to strengthen its ties with Ukraine, Franco-German defence group KNDS has announced the establishment of a new subsidiary in Kyiv. The subsidiary, named KNDS Ukraine LLC, aims to facilitate closer cooperation between Ukrainian government institutions, the local defence industry, and KNDS, which has become one of the country’s key suppliers of military equipment.
KNDS, a leading provider of land defence systems, currently has around 800 pieces of equipment either deployed or under contract with Ukraine, including high-profile systems such as the Leopard 1 and 2 main battle tanks, the CAESAR artillery gun, the AMX-10 RC reconnaissance vehicle, the PzH 2000 armoured howitzer, and the Gepard anti-aircraft system. In addition to these systems, KNDS has played a significant role in delivering essential ammunition to Ukraine’s armed forces.
The new Kyiv-based subsidiary, KNDS Ukraine LLC, will focus on increasing the availability and readiness of these systems for combat by establishing local capabilities for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO). This will allow for faster repairs and servicing of KNDS equipment within Ukraine, enhancing the operational effectiveness of Ukrainian forces on the front lines. Additionally, KNDS and Ukrainian industry plan to jointly produce 155 mm artillery ammunition and spare parts using advanced manufacturing technologies, further boosting Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
