German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced during an official visit to the United States his intention to buy three M142 HIMARS. These highly mobile artillery missile systems are to be transferred to Ukraine.

"I can confirm that we will transfer three HIMARS systems to Ukraine in cooperation with the Americans," Pistorius told reporters. The statement was made during a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.

Boris Pistorius also stressed the importance of cooperation between Europe and the United States and other NATO allies in supporting Ukraine as it confronts Russia's invasion.

M142 HIMARS

The M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is an American rocket artillery system. It was developed in 1996-2000 and has been manufactured by Lockheed Martin since 2003.

The system is designed to fire guided and unguided missiles. The maximum range depends on the weapon used. The standard rockets are delivered to the launcher pre-loaded in special containers containing 6 MLRS rockets or 1 ATACMS rocket.

The first HIMARS systems were delivered to Ukraine in June 2023 as an aid from the United States.

Source: Verteidigungsministerium