The German government will decide soon on whether to approve the delivery of 100 Marder infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine, Reuters reported on Monday. The shipment, which would be Germany’s first tranche of heavy weaponry delivered to Kiev, has been delayed by government indecision and legal constraints.
Defense manufacturer Rheinmetall has asked for government approval to export the vehicles to Ukraine, Reuters reported, citing a source within the German defense industry. Another government source told the agency that a decision will come from Berlin soon.
Designed in the 1960s and fielded by the German military since 1971, the Marders will need refurbishment before delivery, Reuters’ source added.