According to the Ministry of Defense, the 18 Puma infantry fighting vehicles intended for the NATO command and control mission of the Bundeswehr on the eastern flank are still not fully operational.

"The industry has been able to rectify the defects in all but one of the infantry fighting vehicles," the ministry explained in Berlin on Wednesday, but added: "Further investigations are now necessary; they concern high-value parts and fire damage." The Bundeswehr has been leading the NATO Rapid Reaction Force (VJTF) mission since January 1, which was activated in response to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.

The 18 ultra-modern Puma infantry fighting vehicles were intended for the deployment, but were reported as non-operational after a maneuver in December. The Pumas will be replaced by the older Marder infantry fighting vehicle until further notice. The Puma is basically a powerful piece of equipment, explained the ministry. "However, the Puma must be robust and reliable for a system suitable for war." At present, the tank can only be operated "in a closely interlinked system of troops, army maintenance logistics, project management and industry". In order to determine the next steps, the ministry will invite industry, troops and the procurement organization to a top-level meeting "in the near future".

(Report by Alexander Ratz; Edited by Sabine Ehrhardt; If you have any questions, please contact berlin.newsroom@tr.com)